claw
[ klaw ]
/ klɔ /
noun
verb (used with object)
verb (used without object)
Origin of claw
before 900; (noun) Middle English; Old English
clawu; cognate with Old High German
chlō(a), akin to Dutch
klauw, German
Klaue; (v.) Middle English
clawen, Old English
claw(i)an, derivative of
clawu (noun); akin to Dutch
klauwen, German
klauen
OTHER WORDS FROM claw
claw·er, noun claw·less, adjective de·claw, verb (used with object)WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH claw
clause clawsWords nearby claw
Example sentences from the Web for claw
British Dictionary definitions for claw
claw
/ (klɔː) /
noun
a curved pointed horny process on the end of each digit in birds, some reptiles, and certain mammals
a corresponding structure in some invertebrates, such as the pincer of a crab
a part or member like a claw in function or appearance
botany
the narrow basal part of certain petals and sepals
verb
to scrape, tear, or dig (something or someone) with claws, etc
(tr)
to create by scratching as with claws
to claw an opening
Derived forms of claw
clawer, noun clawless, adjectiveWord Origin for claw
Old English
clawu; related to Old High German
kluwi, Sanskrit
glau- ball, sphere
Scientific definitions for claw
claw
[ klô ]
A sharp, curved nail at the end of a toe of a mammal, reptile, or bird.
A pincer, as of a lobster or crab, used for grasping.