a large-headed nail used for securing doors, especially on the outside of buildings, a dead person or thing; something lifeless

Formal and Informal Expressions of doornail

In different contexts, you can replace 'doornail' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'lifeless' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'dead' is a commonplace synonym.

doornail: Explore its Definition & Usage

doornail Definition

1a large-headed nail used for securing doors, especially on the outside of buildings
2a dead person or thing; something lifeless

Using doornail: Examples

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

Example
The doornail was hammered into the door to secure it.
Example
After the accident, the car was as dead as a doornail.
Example
He was so tired that he felt like a doornail.
Example
The old computer is as lifeless as a doornail.

doornail Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for doornail

lifeless
inanimate
dead
non-living

Antonyms for doornail

Phrases with doornail

dead as a doornail
completely dead or lifeless
Example
The plant was as dead as a doornail after being left without water for weeks.
nail in one's coffin
an action or event that leads to one's downfall or failure
Example
His decision to quit his job was the final nail in his coffin and led to his financial ruin.
hang something on the door
to declare something finished or done
Example
After finishing the project, he hung his hat on the door and went home.

Origins of doornail

from Middle English 'dornayl', meaning 'door nail'

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Summary: doornail in Brief

The term 'doornail' [dawrn-eyl] refers to a type of large-headed nail used for securing doors, especially on the outside of buildings. It also means a dead person or thing, or something lifeless. The phrase 'dead as a doornail' is commonly used to describe something completely lifeless.