paw

[pɔː]

paw Definition

• 1. the foot of an animal that has claws or nails, such as a cat, dog, or bear
• 2. to 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

Synonyms for paw

• claw
• digit
• hand
• grasp
• foot
• handle
• manipulate

Antonyms for paw

• release
• let go

Idioms Using paw

• have (one's) paws full

  to be very busy or have a lot of work to do

  Example

  With three kids under the age of five, she definitely has her paws full.

• put (one's) paw in it

  to make a mistake or say something inappropriate

  Example

  I really put my paw in it when I accidentally insulted her cooking.

• up to (one's) paws in (something)

  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

• get one's paws on

  to obtain something, especially something that is difficult to find or acquire

  Example

  I've been trying to get my paws on that book for months.

• paw at the door

  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.

• paw over

  to examine or search through something thoroughly and often carelessly

  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'

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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.