Search results for 'nail':

nail noun 1 the outer structure, composed of keratin, that grows from a tuck in the skin and protects part of the fleshy tip of a finger or toe. 2 a metal spike hammered into something, eg to join two objects together or to serve as a hook. verb (nailed, nailing) 1 to fasten something with, or as if with, a nail or nails. 2 colloq to catch, trap or corner someone. 3 to detect, identify or expose (a lie or deception, etc). nailer noun a maker of nails. nailery noun (naileries) a place where nails are made. a nail in one's or the coffin 1 any event or experience, etc that has the effect of shortening one's life. 2 a contributory factor in the downfall of anyone or anything. hard as nails callous; unsympathetic; unsentimental. hit the nail on the head 1 to pinpoint a problem or issue exactly. 2 to describe something in terms that sum it up precisely. nail one's colours to the mast see under colours. on the nail colloq immediately.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon nægl.