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Definition of claw

claw

/klɔː/
claw

Plural:claws
•
Past Simple:clawed
•
Past Participle:clawed
•
Present Participle:clawing
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claw Lexical Profile

claw Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A sharp, curved horny structure at the end of a toe of a vertebrate, such as a bird, reptile, or mammal.

Example

"The eagle used its powerful claw to snatch the fish from the water."


2

A pincer-like appendage of certain arthropods, such as crabs, lobsters, or scorpions.

Example

"The lobster snapped its large claw defensively when the diver approached."


3

A mechanical device resembling a natural claw, used for gripping, lifting, or extracting objects.

Example

"The arcade machine featured a metal claw that players used to try and grab stuffed animals."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To scratch, tear, or dig with claws or fingers.

Example

"The frightened cat began to claw at the upholstery to escape the room."


2

To make one's way with difficulty by grasping, pulling, or struggling.

Example

"After a devastating early setback, the team managed to claw their way back to the championship finals."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for claw

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'clawu', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'klauw' and German 'Klaue'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Claw. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/claw
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