Abstract: This paper presents a model of size and shape depiction in the manual
modality, based on a micro-level analysis of the lexicon of Adamorobe Sign
Language (Ghana). The model combines strong elements of previous models,
such as a dyadic labeling system separating form and meaning as suggested in
Taub (2001, Language from the body: Iconicity and metaphor in American Sign
Language. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press), and the category of distance
for size (Sowa and Wachsmuth 2003, Coverbal iconic gestures for object descriptions
in virtual environments: An empirical study. In M. Rector, I. Poggi & N. Trigo
(eds.), Gestures: Meaning and use, 365–376. Porto: Edicous Universidade
Fernando Pessoa). It systematically describes depiction at the parameter level,
viewing size and shape depiction as compositional in nature. The model is
innovative in distinguishing two main categories for the expression of size and
shape, i. e., shape for shape depiction, and distance for size depiction. The role of
movement is seen as secondary to these two categories, and either signals extent
(when combined with shape for shape depiction) or a change in it (when combined
with distance for size depiction). Applying the model to a set of lexical data
of Adamorobe Sign Language revealed the need for a new sub-category for
distance for size depiction, i. e., of body-based distance for size depiction as
found in so-called measure stick signs. Parameter-level analysis is indispensable
for cross-linguistic comparisons. To this end, frequency data are presented as well.