claw
9 synonyms for claw, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A sharp, curved nail on the toe of an animal, bird, or reptile.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use claw
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
claw at
claw back
sharp claws
crab's claw
Etymology
From Old English clawu, related to German Klaue and Dutch klauw — a very old Germanic word.
Full origin of claw →Frequently asked questions
What does “claw” mean?
The word “claw” means a sharp, curved nail on the toe of an animal, bird, or reptile. In plain terms, a sharp curved nail (on an animal or a claw-shaped tool), or the act of scratching/gripping with one.
How do you pronounce “claw”?
“Claw” is pronounced klaw (/klɔ/ in IPA).
How do you use “claw” in a sentence?
Here is “claw” used in a sentence: “The eagle's claws locked onto the branch.”
What part of speech is “claw”?
Depending on how it is used, “claw” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “claw” come from?
The word “claw” comes from Old English. From Old English clawu, related to German Klaue and Dutch klauw — a very old Germanic word.
Is “claw” a common word?
“Claw” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “claw” have?
“Claw” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a sharp, curved nail on the toe of an animal, bird, or reptile.
What is the difference between a "claw" and a "talon"?
A "claw" is a general term for a sharp, curved nail on the toe of an animal, bird, or reptile, while "talon" specifically refers to the claws of a bird of prey, such as an eagle or hawk. All talons are claws, but "talon" is reserved for that specific context.
What is the difference between a "claw" and a "pincer"?
A claw is typically a single sharp, curved nail, while a pincer, such as those on a crab or lobster, is a two-part gripping structure used to grasp or crush. The word "claw" can also refer to this pincer itself when describing crustaceans.
