dewclaw

American  

[doo-klaw, dyoo-] / ˈduˌklɔ, ˈdyu- /

noun

1. a functionless claw of some dogs, not reaching the ground in walking.

2. an analogous false hoof of deer, hogs, etc.

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dewclaw British  

/ ˈdjuːˌklɔː /

noun

1. a nonfunctional claw in dogs; the rudimentary first digit

2. an analogous rudimentary hoof in deer, goats, etc

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Other Word Forms

• dewclawed adjective

Etymology

Origin of dewclaw

1570–80; dew + claw; dewlap

Example Sentences

These raptors had four toes on each foot; one was diminutive like a cat's dewclaw, and another had a sickle-shaped claw and was held above the ground while a raptor walked.

From Scientific American

The zoo said Taiga had been immobilized for a routine dewclaw clip earlier in the day and suddenly died in the afternoon.

From Washington Times

The leaders, unlike those of other societies, did not carry flat sticks, but had reddened dewclaw rattles, the dewclaws being attached to the handle of the rawhide sphere.

From Project Gutenberg

Dewclaws should be removed if there is a significant chance for injury as a result of their location on the dog and how each individual dewclaw is attached to the leg.

From Seattle Times

Dewclaw removal surgery is not a high-risk procedure.

From Seattle Times