nail

[neɪl]

nail Definition

• 1. 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
• 2. a 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

Synonyms for nail

• spike
• pin
• peg
• rivet
• tack

Antonyms for nail

• unfasten
• detach

Phrases with nail

• hit the nail on the head

  to do or say something exactly right

  Example

  You hit the nail on the head with your analysis of the situation.

• on the nail

  immediately, without delay

  Example

  I'll pay you on the nail.

• biting your nails

  to be nervous or anxious about something

  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'

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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.