noun Uncommon

claw

klaw

Claw (noun) means a sharp, curved nail on the toe of an animal, bird, or reptile. Example: “The eagle's claws locked onto the branch.”

noun

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."

A pincer of a crab, lobster, or similar creature.

"The lobster snapped its claw shut."

verb

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 notes

In 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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The eagle's _____ locked onto the branch.

Etymology

From Old English clawu, related to German Klaue and Dutch klauw — a very old Germanic word.

Origin: Old English

Synonyms

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talon pincer nail scratch grip clutch

Related words

take help money power hold mark handle bag

Rhymes for claw

law flaw slaw

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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.

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