claw
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms 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
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.
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.