fingernail

noun

fin·​ger·​nail ˈfiŋ-gər-ˌnāl How to pronounce fingernail (audio)
ˌfiŋ-gər-ˈnāl
: the nail of a finger

Examples of fingernail in a Sentence

I trimmed and filed my fingernails. He had dirt under his fingernails.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But who knows whether traces of hair or fingernail are included in these products; perfumers tend to lie about their formulas, to keep them secret. Literary Hub, 6 Jan. 2026 These gorgeous designs perfectly mimic rose quartz on all of your fingernails. Odeya Pinkus, InStyle, 2 Jan. 2026 Cardi was sued this year by former security guard Emani Ellis, who claimed that Cardi cut her face with her fingernail in an altercation while the rapper was visiting her OB/GYN. Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 1 Jan. 2026 Ross suggests using a fingernail instead, which is faster and more effective. Taryn White, Travel + Leisure, 20 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fingernail

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fingernail was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fingernail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fingernail. Accessed 9 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

fingernail

noun
fin·​ger·​nail ˈfiŋ-gər-ˌnāl How to pronounce fingernail (audio)
ˌfiŋ-gər-ˈnā(ə)l
: the nail of a finger

Medical Definition

fingernail

noun
: the nail of a finger

More from Merriam-Webster on fingernail

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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