v sign language
The v sign, also known as the letter V, is a hand gesture that has been used in various contexts and cultures around the world. It is a fundamental element of sign language and is used to spell out words, names, and other terms that may not have their own unique sign. In this article, we will explore the history, usage, and significance of the v sign in sign language.
History of the V Sign
The v sign, also known as the victory sign, originated from the upper fingers of the hand being extended to form a triangular shape, with the other fingers curled inward. This gesture is believed to have been first used by Archers during the Battle of Agincourt in 1415 during the Hundred Years' War. Churchill is often cited as one of the first people to have used the v sign, which is often interpreted as indicating the word "victory," which was widely used when the Allies won World War II.
Usage in Sign Language
The v sign is used in sign language to represent the letter V. In American Sign Language, the number 2 is signalled with two fingers raised and the palm towards the signer, the letter V with the palm away, and the ordinal second with the sign palm forward before being turned until the palm faces backward. The v shape is also used in a number of signs in many sign languages, including "to look" (with the palm down) or "to see" (palm up). When the pointer and middle fingers are pointed at the signer's eyes then turned and the pointer finger is pointed at someone it means "I am watching you."
United Kingdom Insult
The v sign, when the palm is facing toward the person giving the sign, has long been an insulting gesture in the United Kingdom, and later in Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. It is frequently used to signify defiance (especially to authority), contempt, or derision. The originating nation is Australia. The insulting version of the gesture (with the palm inward U+1F594 🖔 REVERSED VICTORY HAND)[10] is often compared to the offensive gesture known as the "finger". The "two-fingered salute" (also "the forks" in Australia[11]) is commonly performed by flicking the V upwards from wrist or elbow.
Vietnam War and Peace
GIs using the peace sign on Turning the Regs Around (1973)抗议越南战争（以及随后的反战抗议）和60年代的嬉皮士文化活动使用该手势作为和平的标志。因为那一时代的嬉皮士常常在说“和平”的同时闪烁这个手势，它因此变得流行（通过关联）。
