a 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, a horny covering on the upper surface of the tip of the finger and toe in humans and other primates, a measure of length for cloth, equal to 1/16 of a yard (2.25 inches)

hit the nail on the head, on the nail, hard as nails

Formal and Informal Expressions of nails

In different contexts, you can replace 'nails' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'metal spikes, fasteners' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'pegs, hooks' is a commonplace synonym.

nails: Explore its Definition & Usage

nails 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
3a measure of length for cloth, equal to 1/16 of a yard (2.25 inches)

Using nails: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "nails" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
I need to buy some nails to hang this picture.
Example
She painted her nails bright red.
Example
The fabric is sold by the yard or by nails.

nails Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for nails

tacks
brads
claw
staples
hoof

Phrases with nails

hit the nail on the head
to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem
Example
She hit the nail on the head when she said that the company's lack of communication was the main issue.
on the nail
immediately or without delay
Example
The payment was made on the nail, so the goods were delivered the next day.
hard as nails
very tough or unfeeling
Example
He looks hard as nails, but he's actually very sensitive.

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Summary: nails in Brief

The word 'nails' [neɪlz] has three distinct meanings. Firstly, it refers to small metal spikes with flat heads used to join things together or to serve as a peg or hook. Secondly, it refers to the horny covering on the upper surface of the tip of the finger and toe in humans and other primates. Lastly, it is a measure of length for cloth, equal to 1/16 of a yard (2.25 inches). Common phrases include 'hit the nail on the head,' meaning to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem, 'on the nail,' meaning immediately or without delay, and 'hard as nails,' meaning very tough or unfeeling.