Dewclaw: meaning, definitions and examples
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dewclaw
[ djuːklɔː ]
animal anatomy
A dewclaw is a vestigial toe found on the foot of some animals, particularly dogs and cats. It is located higher up on the leg than the other toes and is not typically used for walking, making it less prominent. In various breeds, dewclaws may be present on the front legs, back legs, or both. Though often considered non-functional, dewclaws have been debated for their potential role in aiding an animal's grip while running or climbing.
Examples of usage
- The vet examined the dog's dewclaw for signs of injury.
- Some breeds have their dewclaws removed to prevent snagging.
- The cat's dewclaw helps it maintain balance when climbing.
Translations
Translations of the word "dewclaw" in other languages:
🇵🇹 unha de corvo
🇮🇳 डेवक्लॉ
🇩🇪 Widerhaken
🇮🇩 cakar dewclaw
🇺🇦 пальці
🇵🇱 pazur z tyłu
🇯🇵 デュークロー
🇫🇷 ergot
🇪🇸 garra vestigial
🇹🇷 dewclaw
🇰🇷 드류클로
🇸🇦 مخلب خلفي
🇨🇿 záložní dráp
🇸🇰 záložný pazúr
🇨🇳 退化爪
🇸🇮 degenerativni krempelj
🇮🇸 vöðvastór
🇰🇿 артқы тырнақ
🇬🇪 უკანა ფრჩხილი
🇦🇿 geriyə qayıdan dırnaq
🇲🇽 garra vestigial
Etymology
The term 'dewclaw' originated from the Middle English word 'dew' which means 'dew' in a literal sense and is connected to the Old English 'deaw'. The 'claw' part of the term is derived from the Old Norse word 'kló', meaning 'claw'. Etymologically, 'dewclaw' reflects the historical observation that this toe is often found in a location that resembles how animals might be seen walking through dew-covered grass, with the dewclaws not making direct contact with the ground. The concept of dewclaws being vestigial can be traced back through various discussions in the fields of veterinary science and animal breeding. Over the years, the significance of dewclaws has led to various breeding practices, where some people might have them removed for aesthetic or functional reasons.