1. a person used by another to accomplish a purpose; a tool or dupe
Usage: often used in the phrase 'be someone's catspaw'
2. a slight breeze that ruffles the surface of water
Usage: nautical

Examples

• He refused to be a catspaw in their scheme to defraud the company.
• The manager used her as a catspaw to deliver the unpopular decision.
• The sailors watched for a catspaw on the water to catch some wind.
• Don't let them make you their catspaw—stand up for yourself.
• A catspaw rippled across the glassy sea.
• She realized too late that she had been their catspaw all along.