claw off

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To remove by clawing.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

The tiger clawed off her face.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To beat to windward to avoid being driven on to a lee shore.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To hit or beat up (someone).

Register: dated, slang

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “claw off” mean?

To remove by clawing.

Is “claw off” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.