noun
claw
klaw
noun
1
A sharp, curved nail on the toe of an animal, bird, or reptile.
"The eagle's claws locked onto the branch."
"The cat left claw marks all over the sofa."
2
A pincer of a crab, lobster, or similar creature.
"The lobster snapped its claw shut."
verb
1
To scratch, grip, or tear at something using claws (or fingernails).
"The dog clawed at the door to be let out."
"She clawed her way back up the corporate ladder after being fired."
How to Use Claw
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sharp curved nail (on an animal or a claw-shaped tool), or the act of scratching/gripping with one.
Common pairings
claw at
claw back
sharp claws
crab's claw
Word Forms
clawed past tense, claws plural, Claws plural, claws singular
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Etymology
From Old English clawu, related to German Klaue and Dutch klauw — a very old Germanic word.