claw crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "claw crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle back on track.
Solutions for "claw crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RIP: To tear or pull something apart quickly and forcibly, often with a claw-like action.
PAW: An animal's foot, typically having claws and pads, often used in a 'clawing' motion.
4 Letters
NAIL: A hard, horny covering at the end of a finger or toe in humans and other primates, analogous to a claw in other animals.
HOOK: A curved or angled piece used for catching or holding, which can sometimes resemble a claw in function or form.
TEAR: To pull or rip something apart or to pieces with force, similar to the action of a claw.
5 Letters
TALON: Specifically, a claw, especially of a bird of prey or other predatory animal, used for seizing and holding.
GRASP: To seize and hold firmly, often implying the use of fingers or a paw in a claw-like grip.
More About "claw crossword clue"
The word "claw" in a crossword puzzle can be a versatile clue, pointing to both nouns and verbs. As a noun, it commonly refers to the sharp appendage found on animals like cats, birds of prey, or even crustaceans. In the context of humans, the equivalent is typically a "nail." Understanding the context of the clue—whether it implies a specific animal, a human body part, or an action—is key to narrowing down the possibilities.
When "claw" is used as a verb, it describes an action of tearing, scratching, or gripping forcefully. This opens up a different set of solutions, focusing on the movement rather than the physical object. Crossword setters often play on these dual meanings, requiring solvers to consider both parts of speech. Pay attention to synonyms for tearing (RIP, TEAR) or gripping (GRASP) when the clue seems to indicate an action.
Sometimes, clues might hint at objects that function like claws, such as tools or parts of machinery. This expands the potential answers beyond biological definitions. Always consider all possible interpretations of "claw" to ensure you don't miss a less obvious, but perfectly valid, solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms for both noun and verb forms: For "claw," think of synonyms for the physical appendage (nail, talon, pincer) and for the action (rip, tear, scratch, grasp).
- Check letter count carefully: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. Use it to filter potential answers immediately.
- Look at surrounding clues: Often, intersecting words will provide letters that confirm or deny your hypotheses for "claw." Don't guess in isolation.
- Think about context: Does the clue hint at a specific animal (e.g., "Eagle's claw" suggests TALON), a human (NAIL), or a forceful action?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'claw' typically refer to in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'claw' most commonly refers to the sharp, curved appendage on the end of a digit (like a finger or toe) of a mammal, bird, or reptile. Common answers include NAIL or TALON, depending on the context or animal implied.
Can 'claw' be a verb in crossword clues?
Yes, 'claw' can certainly be used as a verb, meaning to scratch, tear, or pull with claws or a claw-like action. This can lead to answers like RIP, TEAR, or GRASP, particularly if the clue describes an action rather than a noun.
Are there different types of 'claws' in crosswords?
While the general term is 'claw,' crosswords often differentiate. 'Talon' specifically refers to a bird of prey's claw, and 'nail' refers to a human or primate's equivalent. Sometimes, it might refer to an implement, like a 'hook' or a 'pincer' of a crab, if the clue hints at a tool or a gripping mechanism.