"This unique reference can help users locate a sign whose meaning they have forgotten or help them find the meaning of a new sign they have just seen for the first time. The American Sign Language handshape dictionary organizes more than 1900 ASL signs by 40 basic handshapes and includes detailed descriptions on how to form these signs to represent the different English words that they might mean. Users can begin to track down a sign by determining whether it is formed with one hand or two. Further distinctions of handshape, palm orientation, location, movement, and nonmanual signals help them pinpoint their search while also refining their grasp of ASL syntax and grammar. A complete index of English words provides users with the option of referring to an alphabetical listing of English terms to locate an equivalent sign or choice of signs. This dictionary also features a brief introduction to Deaf culture and ASL structure."--Provided by publisher