Langimage
English

nails

|nails|

A2

/neɪlz/

(nail)

fastening or covering

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent Participle
nailnailsnailsnailednailednailing
Etymology
Etymology Information

'nail' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'nægl', where 'nægl' meant 'nail' or 'claw'.

Historical Evolution

'nægl' transformed into the Middle English word 'nail', and eventually became the modern English word 'nail'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a pointed metal pin', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a small metal spike with a flat head, driven into wood or other material to fasten things together.

He hammered the nails into the wooden board.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a hard, protective covering on the upper surface of the tip of the fingers and toes.

She painted her nails a bright red.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to fasten or secure something with a nail or nails.

He nailed the picture frame to the wall.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to achieve something perfectly or successfully.

She nailed the performance and received a standing ovation.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45