claw

claw · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A curved, pointed nail on the end of an animal's toe or foot.

  2. 2.

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

  3. 3.

    The pincer of a crab, lobster, or similar crustacean.

  4. 4.

    A mechanical device resembling a claw.

Forms

plural: claws

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    claw back — to recover or regain with difficulty
  • •
    get one's claws into — to gain control or influence over someone

Related words

See also: claws, nail, scratch, talon
Synonyms: nail, talon

Etymology

From Old English clawu ("claw"), from Proto-Germanic klawwo, related to cleave (to split).