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Paw - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A paw is the foot of an animal, typically a mammal like a cat or dog, that has claws and pads. It is used for walking, digging, or grasping objects.

paw

/pɔ/ /pɔː/

Definition:

The foot of an animal with claws, such as a cat or dog.

Synonyms:

foot, pad, claw, mitt

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

hand (for animals), hoof

Common Collocations:

paw print, paw at, paw pads, lick paws

Derivatives:

pawed, pawing, paws

Usage Tips:

Use "paw" for animals' feet; avoid for humans unless metaphorically (e.g., "He pawed at the door").

Common Phrases:

cat's paw, velvet paw, paw the ground

Etymology:

From Old French "poe," meaning "paw," of Germanic origin.

Examples:

  • 1. The dog left muddy paw prints on the floor.
  • 2. She gently held the kitten’s tiny paw.
  • 3. The bear used its paw to catch fish.
  • 4. He tried to paw at the toy under the couch.

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