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Talon: meaning, definitions and examples

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talon

 

[ˈtælən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

bird of prey

A talon is a sharp, hooked claw of a bird of prey, such as an eagle or hawk. Talons are used by these birds for catching and gripping their prey. They are a vital tool for hunting and survival in the wild.

Synonyms

beak, claw, nail.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
talon

Used specifically to describe the sharp claws of birds of prey like eagles, hawks, and owls.

  • The eagle gripped its prey with its powerful talons
claw

Can refer to the sharp, curved nails of many animals including birds, mammals, and reptiles. It is a more generic term.

  • The cat sharpened its claws on the scratching post
nail

Commonly used to describe the hard, flat part at the tips of human fingers and toes, though it can sometimes refer to animal claws.

  • She painted her nails with a bright red polish
beak

Refers to the hard, pointed mouthpart of birds. It can be used generally for any bird.

  • The parrot cracked the seeds with its strong beak

Examples of usage

  • The eagle swooped down and caught its prey with its powerful talons.
  • The hawk's talons were sharp and deadly, allowing it to catch small animals with ease.
Context #2 | Noun

financial

In a financial context, a talon is a detachable part of a bond or other financial instrument that can be exchanged separately. Talons are used to facilitate the transfer of ownership and can be traded independently.

Synonyms

coupon, detachable, warrant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
talon

Typically used to describe the sharp, hooked claws of birds of prey like eagles or hawks.

  • The eagle's talons gripped the fish tightly.
  • She admired the bird's sharp talons.
coupon

Commonly used in shopping and marketing to refer to a voucher that provides a discount or special offer.

  • I used a coupon to get 20% off my purchase.
  • The store is offering a $5 coupon for any new customers.
warrant

Primarily used in legal contexts to describe a document that authorizes law enforcement to make an arrest, search premises, or carry out some other action.

  • The police had a warrant for his arrest.
  • The judge issued a search warrant for the premises.
detachable

Describes something that can be removed or separated from a larger object, often used in the context of clothing, accessories, or parts of devices.

  • The jacket has a detachable hood.
  • The detachable keyboard makes the tablet more versatile.

Examples of usage

  • The bond had two talons attached, allowing investors to trade them separately.
  • By detaching the talon, the owner could transfer ownership of a portion of the bond.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'talon' comes from the Old French 'talon', meaning claw, which itself derives from the Latin 'talonem'.
  • In various languages, similar words refer to sharp claws, showing a common understanding of their importance in nature.

Nature and Biology

  • Birds of prey, like eagles and hawks, have powerful talons that help them hunt and defend themselves.
  • Some reptiles, like alligators, also showcase claws akin to talons, illustrating how these adaptations help them survive in different environments.

Cultural Symbolism

  • In many cultures, talons symbolize strength and agility, representing the fierce nature of predatory birds.
  • Talons are often depicted in art and literature as tools of power, emphasizing themes of dominance in nature.

Sports and Nicknames

  • The nickname 'Talons' is often used for sports teams to evoke ideas of speed and ferocity, drawing on the imagery of sharp claws.
  • Some professional sports teams, like minor league baseball teams, adopt animal mascots featuring talons to symbolize success and agility.

Science and Anatomy

  • Talons are technically known as 'ungula,' a type of keratin structure, much like human nails but designed for hunting.
  • Different species of birds have evolved unique talon shapes suited to their specific hunting styles and diets, showing a fascinating aspect of evolution.

Translations

Translations of the word "talon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 garra

🇮🇳 नाखून

🇩🇪 Kralle

🇮🇩 cakar

🇺🇦 кіготь

🇵🇱 szpon

🇯🇵 鉤爪 (かぎづめ)

🇫🇷 griffe

🇪🇸 garra

🇹🇷 pençe

🇰🇷 발톱

🇸🇦 مخلب

🇨🇿 dráp

🇸🇰 pazúr

🇨🇳 爪子 (zhuǎzi)

🇸🇮 krempelj

🇮🇸 kló

🇰🇿 тырнақ

🇬🇪 ფრჩხილი

🇦🇿 pəncə

🇲🇽 garra

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,581 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.