On the iconicity of the y-handshape

Abstract

As part of a two-year research project, the study examines the diagrammatic iconicity of the Y-handshape of two non-cognate sign languages; the American Sign Language and Greek Sign Language. In a sample of sixty-four signs, and through a close reading approach, it demonstrates the association of the specific handshape with real-world referents that have simultaneously a round and angular form (e.g. cylinder, cone), or only an angular/ linear shape. It also shows its historic association with the ancient traditional sign mano cornuta, addressing its metonymy in meanings relating to quantity, earth, life, loss, light and cavity.