What does talon mean?
A talon is a sharp, curved claw, especially the claw of a bird of prey. The word is used for animals such as eagles, hawks, owls, and other raptors, whose talons help them seize, carry, and control prey. Because the claws are strongly curved and sharply pointed, the term often conveys fierceness, concentrated power, and an ability to grip firmly. In ordinary descriptions of birds, "talon" is more precise than "claw," while "claw" remains the broader word for the nail-like structures at the ends of many animals' digits. Talon can also be used figuratively in descriptions of a person's grip, but its clearest and most characteristic application is zoological. The standard plural is "talons," used for the individual claws of an animal or for the collection of claws on one or more birds.
nounA sharp, curved claw, especially one belonging to a bird of prey such as an eagle, hawk, or owl.
- A sharp, curved claw, especially of a bird of prey.
"The eagle gripped the prey tightly in its powerful talons."
"The owl descended silently, its talons extended toward the mouse."
"The bird's talons left deep impressions in the rabbit's hide."
The standard plural is used for the individual claws of a bird or for the claws of one or more birds collectively.
"The owl's talons gripped the branch tightly."
A raptor's talons are not merely claws: their hooked shape helps the bird seize and hold struggling prey.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does talon come from?
The word entered English through Old French talon, a term for the claw of a bird of prey. Old French talon came from Latin, especially Medieval Latin talo, talonis, which is related to Latin talus, meaning "ankle." The English meaning developed in the context of hunting and descriptions of predatory birds.
Related word forms
How talon is actually used
The word is chiefly used for the claws of birds of prey and is more specific than the general term "claw." In descriptive writing, it may also evoke fierceness, precision, or a powerful grip.