nail Definition
- 1a small metal spike with a broadened flat head, driven typically into wood with a hammer to join things together or to serve as a peg or hook
- 2a horny covering on the upper surface of the tip of the finger and toe in humans and other primates
Using nail: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "nail" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He hammered the nail into the wall.
Example
She painted her nails bright red.
Example
The horse lost a shoe because a nail had come loose.
Example
I broke a nail trying to open the can.
nail Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with nail
Example
You hit the nail on the head with your analysis of the situation.
Example
I'll pay you on the nail.
Example
She was biting her nails while waiting for the test results.
Origins of nail
Old English 'nægl', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'nagel' and German 'Nagel'
Summary: nail in Brief
The term 'nail' [neɪl] refers to a small metal spike used to join things together or a horny covering on the upper surface of the tip of the finger and toe. Examples include 'He hammered the nail into the wall.' and 'She painted her nails bright red.' Phrases like 'hit the nail on the head' denote doing something exactly right, while 'biting your nails' means being nervous or anxious.