Clawing: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'claw' comes from the Old Norse 'klauf', meaning a 'cloven hoof', which referred to sharp, pointed parts of animals.
• In Middle English, 'claw' transformed to represent the sharp nails specifically of birds and other animals, not just hooved creatures.

Zoology

• Claws serve various purposes in the animal kingdom: for hunting, climbing, digging, and defending themselves.
• Birds of prey like eagles have powerful claws (called talons) that allow them to capture and carry prey, showcasing their strength and adaptation.

Behavior

• Animals often use clawing behavior not just for defense, but also to mark territory by scratching trees or other objects.
• Cats will claw on various surfaces to keep their claws sharp, stretch their muscles, and signal to other cats.

Art

• In literature and art, clawing is often depicted as aggressive or desperate. Characters may claw at obstacles, representing struggle.
• Clawing imagery appears in various cultures’ folklore, showcasing battles or fierce creatures, often symbolizing tenacity.

Metaphor

• The action of 'clawing' has become a metaphor for fighting against adversity, as in someone 'clawing their way to success'.
• In media, clawing can describe someone acting desperately to get what they want, portraying persistence and determination.

At rank #26,313, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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