Definition

To remove the claws from an animal, especially a cat, making it unable to use its claws for defense or climbing.

Example

Many people choose to declaw their cats to prevent them from scratching furniture.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard some people want to declaw their cats, but I’m not sure that’s a good idea.

Yeah, it seems a bit harsh to me; they use their claws for so much.

Exactly! It feels like it would just declaw their natural instincts.

Right? It’s better to train them instead of taking away their defenses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Declaw → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "claw" (from Old English "clawu", meaning a sharp, curved nail). The word "declaw" means to remove the claws, or to take them away.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') the 'sharp nails' ('claw') — that's why declaw means to remove claws.

Visually Confused Words