claw

English

/klɔː/, /klɔ/, /klɑ/

noun
Definitions
  • A curved, pointed horny nail on each digit of the foot of a mammal, reptile, or bird.
  • A foot equipped with such.
  • The pincer (chela) of a crustacean or other arthropod.
  • A mechanical device resembling a claw, used for gripping or lifting.
  • (botany) A slender appendage or process, formed like a claw, such as the base of petals of the pink.
  • (juggling) The act of catching a ball overhand.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English clawe inherited from Old English clawu inherited from Proto-Germanic *klawō.

Origin

Proto-Germanic

*klawō

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms