claw

/klˈɔː/

/ˈkɫɔ/

[noun] [verb]

Claw

[NOUN]

a sharp and curved nail on the toe of an animal or a bird

a sharp curved organ of some of the arthropods such as a crab, lobster, etc.

synonyms : chela

nipper

pincer

a mechanical device that is curved or bent to suspend or hold or pull something

synonyms : hook

a bird's foot

to claw

[VERB]

MAIN VERB

clutch as if in panic

move as if by clawing, seizing, or digging

attack as if with claws

scratch, scrape, pull, or dig with claws or nails

Examples

1. The lion's sharp teeth and claws are used for hunting.

2. and I will claw thee, so you better watch your back.

3. The politician maintained a pleasant facade but his opponents knew that cats hide their claws, so they remained wary of his true motives and ambitions.

4. In negotiations, a clever hawk hides its claws, which is why it's important to be strategic and hold back some of your bargaining chips until the right moment.

Nearby words