Claws Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈklɔz/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A sharp, curved, horny structure at the end of a toe or finger in many animals, typically used for grasping, climbing, or defense.

Examples

• The cat’s sharp claws dug into the carpet.
• The bird’s talons are its sharp, grasping claws.

Synonyms

• Talons
• Hooves
• Claw-like structures

Antonyms

• Fur
• Flesh
• Skin

Additional Information

Claws are a common adaptation in many animals, used for a variety of purposes such as hunting, self-defense, and climbing. Some animals, like cats and bears, have retractable claws, while others, like birds and reptiles, have non-retractable claws.

Claws can also be modified over time through evolution to suit specific environments or lifestyles. For example, the claws of a cat are well-suited for hunting small prey, while the claws of an eagle are adapted for grasping and tearing flesh.

Etymology

The word “claw” originated from the Old English word “clāw”, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*klawiz”, related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*klew-“, meaning “hook” or “hook-like”.

Usage Notes

In general, “claw” is a countable noun, but it can also be used in the plural form to refer to the claw-like structures on an animal’s feet or fingers.

In some contexts, “claw” may be used metaphorically to describe a grasping or gripping action, such as “the company’s tight grip on the market” or “the politician’s claws on power”.

Cultural References

Claws have appeared in various forms of popular culture, such as in film, literature, and music. For example, the claws of a fictional character like Wolverine are a key aspect of their mythology, while the claws of a real-life animal like a lion or eagle are often featured as a symbol of power or strength.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• To hold someone by the claws: to have a strong grasp or control over someone or something.
• To claw one’s way to the top: to struggle and persevere in order to achieve success or prominence.

Related Words or Phrases

• Fur
• Horn
• Tusks

Collocations

• Claws are sharp
• Claws are retractable
• Claws are used for defense

Frequency of Use

The word “claw” is a relatively common noun in everyday language, used in a variety of contexts to refer to the sharp, curved structures on an animal’s feet or fingers.

Common Misspellings

• Clawz
• Clawses