American Sign Language Computer Dictionary

Interpreter’s Resource Shelf (appeared in RID VIEWS June, 2007, reprinted with permission)
Kathy MacMillan, NIC, M.L.S.

Random House Webster’s American Sign Language Computer Dictionary by Elaine Costello. NY: Random House, 2001. ISBN 0-375-71942-3. $24.95.

While we all know that you can’t learn ASL from a dictionary, we also know that dictionaries sure can come in handy, especially to help find forgotten signs or expand vocabulary in specific areas. Random House Webster’s American Sign Language Computer Dictionary is a treasure for interpreters working in assignments where computer terminology is abundant. Over 1,200 entries cover the spectrum from basic computer terms to more advanced technology, and clear line drawings illustrate each sign. Entries are arranged alphabetically by English term, and each includes a definition that even a non-computer-geek can understand. For terms with multiple meanings (such as “compress”), only the computer-related meaning is included here. The signs shown are conceptually accurate renderings of meaning; for example, “embedded command” combines the signs for PENETRATE and ORDER. The dictionary is the result of interviews with many Deaf users, and so is a solid reference for interpreters. The one drawback is the 2001 copyright date—think of the many advances in the area of VRS alone in the past 6 years!—but this dictionary remains the most current of its kind, and broad concepts such as “formula”, “merge”, “menu”, and “scroll” are unlikely to go away anytime soon. Whether you need to expand your understanding of technological terminology, or just need a guide to technical signs, this book is a great resource.


This column appears monthly in VIEWS. Please direct questions, comments, or suggestions for resources to highlight in future issues to Kathy MacMillan at info@kathymacmillan.com.