Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
dewclaw
noun
/ˈdjuːˌklɔː/
Definition
A small, often vestigial digit on the feet of some mammals, located higher up on the leg than the other toes.
Examples
- The dog had its dewclaws removed to prevent injuries.
- A cat’s dewclaw is often prone to injury since it doesn’t wear down like the main claws.
- Some breeds of goats have pronounced dewclaws that help them grip rocky terrain.
Meaning
The dewclaw is not typically in contact with the ground and does not play a central role in locomotion, but it may serve some function such as aiding in grooming or holding onto prey.
Synonyms
- none
