garra
/ˈɡara/feminine
The Spanish word for "talon" is garra.
The word garra is used to describe the hooked claws of birds of prey, such as eagles or hawks, as well as the claws of many mammals. It can also be used metaphorically to mean "grit" or "determination", such as in the phrase jugar con garra (to play with grit).
Meaning: hooked claw (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of garra is garras.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɡara/
Did you know?
- The word garra may trace its roots back to the Arabic word for a 'cup' or 'dipper', suggesting the claw was once conceptualized as a tool for scooping or ladling.
- In Spanish sports commentary, a player with garra is someone who shows relentless fighting spirit and aggression, regardless of their actual technical skill.
Examples in context
- El halcón utilizó su pico y garras para desgarrar la presa con destreza.The hawk used its beak and talons skillfully to tear the prey apart.
- La garra del águila es muy fuerte.The eagle's claw is very strong.
- El gato sacó su garra.The cat showed its claw.
- Ese animal tiene una garra enorme.That animal has an enormous claw.
Example conversation
Lucía and Javier are watching a nature documentary together.
- LucíaMira la garra de ese halcón.Look at that falcon's claw.
- JavierEs impresionante, Lucía.It is impressive, Lucía.
- Lucía¿Crees que sea peligrosa?Do you think it is dangerous?
- JavierSí, tiene una garra muy afilada.Yes, it has a very sharp claw.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “talon” translations and entries garra, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries garra, CC BY-SA 4.0.
