Sign linguistics

Sign linguistics is the scientific study of sign languages used by deaf communities worldwide. It explores how signs function as language—covering their structure, grammar, vocabulary, and usage—much like spoken languages. Sign linguistics examines how signs are produced visually through hand shapes, movements, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning. It also studies how sign languages develop, vary across cultures, and serve as complete, expressive languages with their own rules. This field helps us understand the richness and complexity of signed communication, emphasizing that sign languages are natural, fully capable languages with their own linguistic systems.