Want to say pawing differently? Here are other words for pawing and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of pawing
The primary meaning of the word "pawing" is to touch or handle something clumsily or roughly, often with the hands or paws.
Etymology of pawing
The word "pawing" comes from the Old English and Old Norse words for "paw" and the Old English suffix "-ing", which forms a present participle or gerund, indicating an action or process
Historically, the word has been used to describe the actions of animals, especially quadrupeds, and has since been extended to describe human actions that resemble those of animals
Synonyms
scratching
scraping
clawing
digging
tearing
ripping
pulling
tugging
yanking
jerking
hauling
heaving
lifting
pushing
shoving
thrusting
jabbing
poking
prodding
nudging
rubbing
chafing
fretting
fiddling
handling
manipulating
touching
feeling
exploring
examining
investigating
searching
rummaging
ransacking
exploring
Definitions
- To touch or handle something clumsily or roughly, often with the hands or paws
- * To search or rummage through something, especially with a rough or clumsy motion
Usage Examples
- The child was pawing at the toy, trying to get it to work
- * The dog was pawing at the door, wanting to be let out
- * She was pawing through the pile of clothes, looking for something to wear
Antonyms
gently touching
carefully handling
delicately manipulating
softly stroking
lightly brushing
smoothly gliding
precisely moving
skillfully operating
dexterously managing
neatly arranging
meticulously organizing
carefully examining
thoroughly inspecting
precisely searching
meticulously exploring