paw Definition
- 1the foot of an animal that has claws or nails, such as a cat, dog, or bear
- 2to touch or handle clumsily or roughly with one's hands
Using paw: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paw" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The dog licked its paw.
Example
The cat scratched my arm with its paw.
Example
He pawed through the box looking for his keys.
Example
She pawed at the dirt with her foot.
paw Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using paw
Example
With three kids under the age of five, she definitely has her paws full.
Example
I really put my paw in it when I accidentally insulted her cooking.
to be deeply involved in something, especially something that is difficult or unpleasant
Example
Ever since the merger, we've been up to our paws in paperwork.
Phrases with paw
Example
I've been trying to get my paws on that book for months.
to scratch or tap at a door with one's paw or foot, usually indicating a desire to be let in or out
Example
The cat was pawing at the door, so I let her out.
Example
He pawed over the documents, looking for any clues to the mystery.
Origins of paw
from Middle English 'pawe', from Old French 'pate', from Latin 'pasta', meaning 'paste'
Summary: paw in Brief
The term 'paw' [pɔː] refers to the foot of an animal with claws or nails, such as a cat or dog. It can also mean to touch or handle clumsily or roughly with one's hands, as in 'He pawed through the box looking for his keys.' Phrases like 'get one's paws on' and idioms like 'have (one's) paws full' extend the meaning to obtaining something difficult or being very busy.