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BIG DIPPER: American Sign Language (ASL), how to express "the Big Dipper"

"Big Dipper" (constellation)

A context-and-familiarity-influenced sign generally requiring introduction and expansion on first usage.

Will generally be expressed via fingerspelling by skilled signers in familiar contexts.

Typical expansion process:

In a context of discussing stars and/or constellations:

1. fs-BIG-DIPPER  or Sign: LARGE + fs-DIPPER

2. Sign LARGE + SPOON-[very-large-movement]
(or some other combination of signs to indicate a large ladle) (also see: SOUP)

3. Use depiction (route trace) to show the shape of the "Big Dipper" constellation. Can use index finger handshapes (for route trace) or closed-X handshapes (for "draw in sky" approach).

4. Upon repeated usage default to lexicalized (cursive-like) fingerspelling. (Modified "D" handshape, orientation changes, dropped second-P, two-fingered loose-"E").

5. In-group usage may or may not evolve to fs-BD

 

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Notes: 
See: STAR

 

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