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.
Rinse your hands with clean water to remove any loose debris, apply enough soap to make a good lather, and scrub all surfaces, including between fingers, under fingernails and above wrists. — Kimberly Baker, The Conversation, 31 Aug. 2026 Persistent elevated blood sugar can lead to a number of changes in the body, including your fingernails. — Mira Miller, Verywell Health, 27 Aug. 2026 The Dutch confirmed that Leon Lamb's DNA was mixed with Mischelle's blood found under her fingernails. — Peter Henderson, CBS News, 26 Aug. 2026 Hale also underwent a dramatic physical transformation, growing out his hair and beard, letting his fingernails grow and losing weight. — Denis Akbari, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for fingernail

See All Rhymes for fingernail

Browse Nearby Words

finger millet
fingernail
fingernail clam
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fingernail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fingernail. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on fingernail

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fingernail

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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