Claw: meaning, definitions and examples

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claw

[klɔː ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

animal anatomy

A curved, pointed horny nail on each digit of the foot in birds, lizards, and some mammals.

Synonyms

hook, nail, talon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
claw	Used to describe the sharp, curved nails of animals such as cats or birds. It often implies a natural, biological context. The cat sharpened its claws on the tree The eagle's claws gripped the branch tightly
nail	Used to describe the hard covering on the upper surface of the tips of the fingers and toes, or as a construction item for joining things together. She painted her nails with bright red polish He hammered a nail into the wall to hang the picture
talon	Specifically refers to the sharp, curved claws of birds of prey like eagles and hawks. It often implies power and predation. The hawk used its talons to catch the mouse The eagle's talons were incredibly sharp
hook	Used for objects or tools designed to catch, hold, or pull something. It also can be used metaphorically. He hung his coat on the hook by the door The fish got caught on the hook

Examples of usage

The eagle used its sharp claws to catch the prey.
The cat extended its claws while stretching.
The bear's claws were long and sharp.
The dinosaur's claws left deep marks in the ground.
The owl's claws were adapted for catching small rodents.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

tool

A metal device with sharp points for gripping or lifting.

Synonyms

gripper, hook, pincer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
claw	This term is commonly used to describe the sharp, curved nails found on animals like cats and birds. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone aggressively trying to get something. The cat used its claw to climb the tree. He had to claw his way to the top of the company.
gripper	Often used in mechanical or robotic contexts, this term describes a device designed to grasp and hold objects. The robot's gripper picked up the delicate glass without breaking it. The factory machines use grippers to handle materials.
pincer	This term is often associated with the claw-like appendages of certain animals like crabs and lobsters. It can also refer to a tool used for gripping or cutting. The crab used its pincer to defend itself. He used a pincer to cut the wire.
hook	This word can describe a curved piece of metal or other material used to catch or hold things. It is also used in fishing, boxing, and metaphorically for something that attracts or entices. He hung his coat on the hook by the door. The fish got caught on the hook. The boxer landed a powerful right hook. The book's first chapter has a great hook that keeps you interested.

Examples of usage

The climber used a claw to hold onto the rock.
The hammer had a claw for removing nails.
The robot had a claw to pick up objects.
The claw machine at the arcade was full of toys.
The construction worker used a claw to move debris.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

action

To scratch or tear at something with one's claws or fingernails.

Synonyms

rip, scratch, tear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
claw	Typically used to describe an animal using its claws to grip, scratch, or attack. Can also be used metaphorically for people aggressively trying to get something. The cat used its claws to climb up the tree. He had to claw his way up the corporate ladder.
scratch	Usually describes making small cuts or marks on a surface with a sharp tool or fingernails. Can also refer to relieving an itch. The dog scratched at the door to be let in. I need to scratch my back; it's so itchy.
tear	Focuses on splitting or pulling apart something, often emotional or physical effort in doing so. Frequently used for paper, fabric, or emotions. She tearfully tore up the old love letters. Be careful not to tear the wrapping paper.
rip	Indicates tearing something forcefully or quickly, often suggesting damage. Often used for materials like paper or fabric. She accidentally ripped her new dress on a nail. He ripped the paper into shreds in frustration.

Examples of usage

The cat clawed at the furniture.
The bear clawed at the tree trunk.
She clawed at the door in desperation.
The prisoner clawed at the walls of the cell.
He clawed his way to the top of the mountain.

Interesting Facts

Biology

Many animals, like cats and birds, have claws that help them climb, hunt, or defend themselves.
Birds use their claws, called talons, to catch and hold onto their prey tightly, making them skilled hunters.
Certain reptiles, like chameleons, have specialized claws that allow them to grasp branches and hold onto surfaces securely.

Cultural Symbolism

In different cultures, claws can symbolize strength or power, often linked to predatory animals like lions or eagles.
The image of the 'claw' is frequently used in horror movies to evoke fear, representing danger or the unknown.
In ancient tales and folklore, creatures with fierce claws often appear as guardians or formidable foes.

Sport and Gaming

In sports like baseball, players might refer to their glove as a 'claw' since it helps them catch the ball.
Video games, especially fantasy genres, often feature characters with claw-like weapons or abilities for added combat prowess.
In the world of sports mascots, teams may use animal figures with prominent claws to symbolize tenacity and ferocity.

Anatomy

In humans, although we don’t have claws, our nails are similar structures that protect our fingertips and can assist in small tasks.
Claws grow continuously and may need to be trimmed in pet animals to prevent injury or discomfort.
Some species, like the koala, have specially adapted claws that are both sharp and curved, allowing them to climb eucalyptus trees efficiently.

Translations

Translations of the word "claw" in other languages:

🇵🇹 garra

🇮🇳 पंजा

🇩🇪 Klaue

🇮🇩 cakar

🇺🇦 кіготь

🇵🇱 szpon

🇯🇵 爪 (tsume)

🇫🇷 griffe

🇪🇸 garra

🇹🇷 pençe

🇰🇷 발톱 (baltop)

🇸🇦 مخلب (mukhleb)

🇨🇿 dráp

🇸🇰 pazúr

🇨🇳 爪 (zhǎo)

🇸🇮 krempelj

🇮🇸 kló

🇰🇿 тырнақ

🇬🇪 ფრჩხილი (prchkhili)

🇦🇿 dırnaq

🇲🇽 garra

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,577, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
13574 insults
13575 ointment
13576 compiling
13577 claw
13578 separable
13579 postponement
13580 ransom
...