Nail Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nail

[neษชl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

body part

A nail is a thin pointed piece of metal that is hammered into wood or another material to fasten things together. It can also refer to the hard covering on the upper surface of the tip of a finger or toe.

Synonyms

fastener, spike, tack.

Examples of usage

  • She accidentally hit her thumb with a hammer and it hurt her nail.
  • The carpenter used a nail to secure the pieces of wood together.
Context #2 | Noun

beauty

In beauty and cosmetics, a nail refers to the hard, transparent plate covering the tip of a finger or toe. It can be painted or decorated with nail polish.

Synonyms

claw, fingernail, toenail.

Examples of usage

  • She went to the salon to get a manicure and have her nails painted.
  • He accidentally chipped his nail while working in the garden.
Context #3 | Verb

strike forcefully

To nail something means to hit or strike it forcefully and accurately. It can also mean to succeed in achieving or accomplishing something.

Synonyms

accomplish, hit, strike.

Examples of usage

  • He nailed the target with his precise aim.
  • She nailed the presentation and impressed the audience.

Translations

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Origin of 'nail'

The word 'nail' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'nรฆgl'. Nails have been used for fastening objects together for centuries, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient times. In beauty practices, nail care and decoration have been a part of various cultures throughout history, with nail polish and manicures becoming popular in modern times.


See also: nails.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,922 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.