paw
paw
Paw (noun) means the foot of a clawed animal such as a dog or cat. Example: “The puppy left muddy paw prints across the kitchen floor.”
noun
1
The foot of a clawed animal such as a dog or cat.
"The puppy left muddy paw prints across the kitchen floor."
verb
1
For an animal to touch, scrape, or dig at something with a paw.
"The cat pawed at the door until someone let her in."
2
(informal) To touch someone clumsily or unwantedly, especially in a sexual way.
"She pulled away, annoyed at being pawed at on the dance floor."
How to use paw
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn animal's foot, or the act of touching/scraping with one.
Common pairings
paw at the door
paw prints
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Word forms
- Plural
- paws
- Third person singular
- paws
- Past tense
- pawed
Fill the gap
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The puppy left muddy _____ prints across the kitchen floor.
Etymology
From Old French poe, of uncertain deeper origin, possibly linked to a Germanic root meaning "to poke" or "put."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “paw” mean?
The word “paw” means the foot of a clawed animal such as a dog or cat. In plain terms, an animal's foot, or the act of touching/scraping with one.
How do you pronounce “paw”?
“Paw” is pronounced paw (/pɔ/ in IPA).
How do you use “paw” in a sentence?
Here is “paw” used in a sentence: “The puppy left muddy paw prints across the kitchen floor.”
What part of speech is “paw”?
Depending on how it is used, “paw” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “paw” come from?
The word “paw” comes from Old French. From Old French poe, of uncertain deeper origin, possibly linked to a Germanic root meaning "to poke" or "put.".
Is “paw” a common word?
“Paw” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “paw” have?
“Paw” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the foot of a clawed animal such as a dog or cat.
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