Nail

Definition

Nail is a noun and verb. As a noun, it refers to a thin, pointed piece of metal used for fastening or a hard, keratin-based covering on the tips of fingers and toes in humans and some animals. As a verb, it means to fasten with a nail or to achieve or secure something firmly.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /neɪl/
• Respelling: NAYL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /neɪl/
• Respelling: NAYL

Etymology

The word "nail" comes from Old English "nægl," which referred both to a finger or toenail and a metal fastener. It derives from Proto-Germanic "*naglaz" and Proto-Indo-European "*nokʷos," meaning "nail" or "claw."

Derivatives

• Nailed (verb)
• Nailing (verb)
• Nail-biting (adjective)
• Nail-down (phrasal verb)
• Nailhead (noun)

Synonyms

• Fastener
• Claw
• Pin

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "nail" is used in various contexts, both literal and figurative. For example, "She hammered the nail into the wall" (literal) or "He nailed the audition with his performance" (figurative).

Related Terms

• Screw: A helical fastener often compared to a nail.
• Claw: A similar structure found in animals.
• Hammer: A tool commonly used with nails.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A thin, pointed piece of metal used for fastening: Often used in construction or carpentry.
  • Example: "He used a nail to secure the wood panel."
• A hard keratin-based covering on fingers and toes: Refers to a part of the body that protects the tips of digits.
  • Example: "She painted her nails red."

Verb

• To fasten or secure with a nail: The act of using nails to hold materials together.
  • Example: "He nailed the frame to the wall."
• To achieve or secure something firmly: Used figuratively to describe succeeding or accomplishing something.
  • Example: "She nailed the presentation perfectly."