forepaw

Everyday

A front foot (paw) of an animal that has paws, such as a dog, cat, bear or squirrel. tree →

In the lessons

In nature writing and science, forepaws are used for holding food (squirrels), digging (badgers), grooming or catching. In stories, a pet lifting a forepaw might be asking for something or be hurt.

Examples

• The squirrel held the nut in its forepaws. tree →
• The dog raised one forepaw to shake hands. tree →
• Badgers dig with their strong forepaws. tree →
• The kitten licked its forepaw clean. tree →
• The bear's forepaw left a big print in the mud. tree →
• They certainly set off his paws wonderfully, and he stretched out his forepaws and looked at them with pride. tree →

Note

One word. Opposite: «hind paw» (back paw). Only used for animals with paws, not hooves.