lunule

noun

lu·​nule ˈlü-(ˌ)nyül 

: a crescent-shaped body part or marking (such as the whitish mark at the base of a fingernail)

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin lūnula, going back to Latin, "crescent-shaped ornament," diminutive of lūna "moon" — more at lunar

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

lunule

noun

lu·​nule ˈlü-(ˌ)nyü(ə)l 

: lunula