fingernail

noun

fin·​ger·​nail ˈfiŋ-gər-ˌnāl 

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

Milk Stage of Kernels Check the kernels on an ear by poking it with your fingernail. — Danielle Ernest, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Aug. 2026

In one photo from the book, two paltry berries rest on a man’s open palm, fresh soil under his fingernails. — Ana Karina Zatarain, New Yorker, 15 Aug. 2026

The state last week filed documents pushing back on Murdaugh’s request to send DNA found under Maggie’s fingernails to an independent laboratory for more advanced testing. — Devon M. Sayers, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026

Esposito recalled experiencing alarming physical symptoms, including losing her hair and fingernails. — Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 11 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fingernail

• abigail
• cottontail
• countervail
• martingale
• mesoscale
• microscale
• monorail
• nanoscale
• ponytail
• swallowtail
• wensleydale
• yellowtail

Kids Definition

fingernail

noun

fin·​ger·​nail ˈfiŋ-gər-ˌnāl 

ˌfiŋ-gər-ˈnā(ə)l

: the nail of a finger

Medical Definition

fingernail

noun

fin·​ger·​nail ˈfiŋ-gər-ˌnāl, ˌfiŋ-gər-ˈnā(ə)l 

: the nail of a finger