Clapperclaw

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. A strike or scratch inflicted by claws or sharp objects can denote both a physical attack and a figurative rebuke
2. The action of clawing may imply both harmful offense and metaphorical condemnation
3. A blow or scratch made using the sharp claws or fingernails of an animal or person

Etymology: "Clapperclaw" is a compound of "clapper" and "claw." "Claw" is an Old English word for a hooked nail on an animal's foot. "Clapper" comes from the verb "clap," which in Middle English meant to strike or slap, and its origin is probably imitative, based on the sound of a sharp blow. Early uses went beyond scratching. The verb could also mean to beat someone or to scold them harshly, as if tearing at them with words instead of nails. The physical sense of scratching remained alongside it, so the figurative and literal meanings existed together for a time.

Synonyms: slap, strike, hit

Antonyms: caress, embrace, hug