A Dictionary for Sign Language.

Sign language instructors are not web developers. As such, the current providers of American Sign Language reference material do not take advantage of the expressive medium that today’s web has become. The visual nature of signed languages allows for more possibilities in expression and presentation. This project is my take on a more modern guide to American Sign Language.

Screenshot of home page with four words being signed.

Semantic Variations

Just like in English, the same word can have more than one meaning. For example, consider the word ‘above’. It can refer to a quantity, or a position in space. Due to the visual and spatial nature of signed languages, the two concepts have different representations.

Lexical Limitations

In American Sign Language, the same sign is used for synonymous English words. There are substantially fewer words in ASL than in English, thus many signs are reused for similar English words.

Alternatives & Variations

Even the same word, with the same meaning, can be signed in more than one way. These differ due to individual preference, regional variations, or the evolution of the language.

Content Management

The built-in Content Management System allows for easy additions and changes to the dictionary. Featuring automatic thumbnail generation and video optimization, the CMS will automatically reduce file sizes to reduce loading times.

Authenticates with social logins, such as Google, in order to allow quick and convenient access for contributors.

See it live.

Go to Live Site Go to GitHub page