Clappermaclaw

/ˌklæpərməˈklɔ/ noun

Definition

A quarrelsome or contentious person; possibly a variant or intensified form of 'clapperclaw.'

Etymology

From 'clapper' (tongue/striking) + 'ma' (my, used as intensifier) + 'claw' (scratch/attack). A Scottish or Northern English variant combining elements for emphasis.

Kelly Says

Regional dialects sometimes doubled or intensified insults for extra emphasis—clappermaclaw takes 'clapperclaw' and adds a Scottish flavor, suggesting someone who was seriously, impressively contentious.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.