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 claws

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, adjective

Word 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.