Meaning & Definition of word "Fingernail"

Fingernail

/ˈfɪŋɡərneɪl/

noun:

  • 1. The hard, flat, protective covering at the tips of the fingers.
    • Example: She painted her fingernails bright red for the party.
  • 2. A part of a finger that is commonly used in expressions, such as 'under my fingernails' to indicate something hidden or accumulated.
    • Example: He had dirt under his fingernails from gardening all day.
  • 3. A unit of measure that refers to the width of a fingernail, often used in woodworking.
    • Example: The carpenter ensured that the wood was cut to a fingernail's width to fit perfectly.

Etymology

Middle English, from finger + nail

Common Phrases and Expressions

fingernail polish:

Colored lacquer applied to fingernails.

bite one's fingernails:

To nervously chew on one's own fingernails.

Related Words

nail:

The hard covering on the upper surface of the tip of a finger.

cuticle:

The layer of clear skin located along the bottom edge of your finger or toe.

Slang Meanings of fingernail

Meaning: Nail art or decorations on fingernails.

Example Sentence: She's really into nail art and has some amazing designs on her fingernails.

Meaning: To bite one's fingernails due to nervousness.

Example Sentence: Whenever he gets anxious, he starts to nail bite.