lunule

noun

lu·​nule ˈlü-(ˌ)nyül How to pronounce lunule (audio)
: 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

Time Traveler
The first known use of lunule was in 1828

Browse Nearby Words

lunulate
lunule
lunulet
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lunule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lunule. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

More from Merriam-Webster on lunule

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lunule

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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