View sign 'brave'
brave
|
DescriptionHold left fist 8 inches in front of center of body, left forearm horizontal and pointing to right and front, bring right fist six inches above and a little in front of left hand. Strike downwards with right fist by elbow action, second joints of right hand passing close to knuckles of left. References: heart, strong Synonyms: bold, daring, fearless, heroic |
NotesTomkins notes that some Indians make the signs HEART and STRONG (modern). Clark notes that the conception of the gesture comes from the signs for HILL, BREAK, and SIT DOWN. Some Indians hold left as described, but left forearm pointing to right and slightly upwards; and the right hand is carried more round the left and then down, when opposite forearm. Mr. Girard, at Fort Lincoln, who is a fluent sign talker, held that the former was used more in the sense of strong. The distinction is a fine one, and few Indians note it,-using the same gesture exactly, as a rule, for BRAVE and STRONG. This sign is used as frequently with other gestures as it is by itself; it is added to others to complete, perfect, and strengthen them. A boy is a swift runner, add this sign, and it inensifies the idea of his fleetness. An old man walks slowly, add this sign, and it conveys the impression that he can only drag his limbs along. |