Abstract

Abstract:

San Juan Quiahije Chatino Sign Language (CSL) is a group of six family-based signed language varieties in rural Mexico. This study analyzes the variation of iconic patterns of CSL signs with respect to three semantic categories, tools, food, and animals, using an Embodied Cognitive Phonology framework. Signs are organized around iconic prototypes, and handshapes cluster around motivated form-meaning mappings, or visual, haptic, and motoric schemas based on the users' real-world experiences with objects.

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