nail

nail · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A small metal spike with a broadened flat head, driven into wood to join things together or serve as a peg.

  2. 2.

    To fasten with a nail or nails.

  3. 3.

    The thin hard layer covering the upper surface of the tip of each finger and toe.

  4. 4.

    (informal) To catch or arrest someone.

  5. 5.

    (informal) To succeed at something perfectly.

Forms

plural: nails

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    hit the nail on the head — to describe exactly what is causing a situation
  • •
    nail down — to finalize or secure something
  • •
    tough as nails — very strong or resilient
  • •
    nail-biter — a tense situation

Related words

See also: hammer, nails, screw
Synonyms: pin, spike, tack

Etymology

From Old English nægel ("nail, fingernail"), from Proto-Germanic naglaz.