Meaning & Definition of word "Claw"

Claw

/klɔː/

1. A sharp, curved, pointed appendage on the foot of an animal, especially a bird or a mammal.
- Example: The eagle used its sharp claws to capture the fish from the water.
2. A device resembling a claw, used for grasping or holding onto something.
- Example: He used a claw to pick up the difficult-to-reach objects from the shelf.
3. The part of a mechanical device that grips or claw-like structure.
- Example: The robotic arm had a claw that could easily lift heavy objects.

1. To tear, scratch, or dig with claws.
- Example: The cat clawed at the furniture, leaving visible marks.
2. To reach out with a claw-like motion.
- Example: He clawed his way up the rocky hill, desperately trying to find a handhold.

Middle English: from Old English 'clawu', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'klauw' and German 'Klaue'.

claw one's way:

To work hard to achieve something.

to have claws out:

To be aggressive or confrontational.

claw back:

To recover or regain something.

talon:

A sharp claw, especially of a bird of prey.

clutch:

To grip or grasp tightly.

scratcher:

An object used to scratch, such as a cat scratching post.

Meaning: To handle or manipulate something eagerly or aggressively.

Example Sentence: He really clawed his way to the top of the corporate ladder.

Meaning: A way to describe someone's hand when they are grasping something tightly.

Example Sentence: Her claws were digging into my arm when she got scared.