Perceptual-semantic features of words differentially shape early vocabulary in American Sign Language and English.

ABSTRACT: How do sensory experiences shape the words we learn first? Most studies of language have focused on hearing children learning spoken languages, making it challenging to know how sound and language modality might contribute to language learning. This study investigates how perceptual and semantic features influence early vocabulary acquisition in deaf children learning American Sign Language and hearing children learning spoken English. Using vocabulary data from parent-report inventories, we analyzed 214 nouns common to both languages to compare the types of meanings associated with earlier Age of Acquisition. Results revealed that while children in both groups were earlier to acquire words that were more strongly related to the senses, the specific types of sensory meaning varied by langu

SUBMITTER: Campbell EE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12753005 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature