Random House Webster's American Sign Language Dictionary

by Elaine Costello

This dictionary represents the cutting edge in reference for American Sign Language, with a treasury of signs for the novice and experienced user alike.

Its many features
over 4,500 signs
complete descriptions of each sign, plus full-torso illustrations separate sections on geographical signs
how numbers are signed in different contexts and the role of finger spelling
a subject index

This dictionary is the only one that makes it easy for you to match the right signs with the right meanings by giving
alternate signs for the same meaning, plus different signs for different meanings of the same word
complete definitions that show you which meanings go with which signs  over 3,000 cross references to the illustrated signs

Genres: Reference, Language, Nonfiction, Education, Collections, Linguistics, Textbooks

576 pages, Paperback

First published March 8, 1994

Reviews

[Claire]

I have learned that ASL references written by Elaine Costello are good references to have. It explains well the signs with some of the mnemonics or basis of the sign. Of course, this dictionary is nice and small so it literally fits in pockets... well, men's pockets or large winter jacket pockets. The smaller number of words can sometimes lead to struggling for synonyms but it helped me look up signs so I could put together short, simple sentences to communicate with a Deaf colleague (e.g. "I made coffee if you want some," "leaving for meeting," etc.). It helped with social bonding, as making efforts to speak someone's language shows consideration, and it gave me tools to express the consideration I already had.

[Julene]

Have found this incredibly helpful as far as "transportable" ASL references go. I prefer the illustrations in this dictionary to several others I've used over the years, and find their explanations of the movements and hand signs for more complex gestures to be pretty clear.

Will this book teach you ASL? No. But for those with quick "what's that (common) word again?" needs, it'll do the trick.

[David]

Fun pocket easy

[Mellie Durrett-johnson]

Required for a class.

[Jason Comely]

Despite how small this ASL dictionary is (it could easily fit in the backpocket of your jeans) the illustrations are clear and I can read the text with my not-so-good eyes. A good reference when a smartphone or pc isn't around.

[Chris]

Good but still a relic. I bought it when I began learning ASL, but quickly realized what should've been obvious from the first-- that ASL is an active, gestural language; therefore, static images don't "translate" well. Best to use an online video dictionary such as those offered by Lifeprint, ASL Pro, Signing Savvy, etc.

[Jessica]

I like the sign language dictionaries. Because my signing is so rusty, I try to keep one nearby so tht I can look up the sign for a word I know I used to know.

[Tamra]

This is the one I will be buying for myself.

[Nanc Jackson]

Best resource on American Sign Language

[Elizabeth Webber]

My favorite ASL guide. Easy to use with helpful tips at the beginning.

[Brianon Sheffield]

I've read a lot of sign language dictionaries, this is the best!

[Yasmeen Tajiddin]

Not something to learn sign language from, the same way you can't learn how to speak English from a dictionary, but it's a very helpful reference.

[Debra Heeringa]

Excellent

[Fishface]

Packed with information.