Register defined

There seems to be some question as what register exactly means. Here is a definition from articleworld.org

Register in linguistics refers to the patterns of communication used in particular settings and for specific purposes. Register is often an indicator of the formality or official nature of an occasion, or a mark of authority. Linguists make the distinction that register varies with use, rather than with the user.

The Education Resource Information Center (ERIC) has more complete information.

For an ASL discussion of the registers we encounter most frequently, try this page at theinterpretersfriend.com.

"A trio of rodents with imperfect vision.
A trio of rodents with imperfect vision.
Observe how they scamper, observe how they scamper.
The collectively persued the agriculturalist's spouse
who surgically removed thier rear appendage with a carving implement
have you ever observed such a spectacle in your existance
as a trio of rodents with imperfect vision..."