1
a
: a horny sheath protecting the upper end of each finger and toe of humans and most other primates
b
: a structure (such as a claw) that terminates a digit and corresponds to a nail
2
: a slender usually pointed and headed fastener designed to be pounded in
see also:
nailed; nailing; nails
1
: to fasten with or as if with a nail
2
: to fix in steady attention
nailed his eye on the crack
4
a
: to hit or strike in a forceful manner : whack sense 1a
nailed the ball
nailed him on the head with a rock
b
: to put out (a runner) in baseball
5
: to perform or complete perfectly or impressively
nailed a jump shot
6
: to gain or win decisively
—often used with down
nail down their consent
7
: to settle, establish, or represent clearly and unmistakably
—often used with down
8
usually vulgar
: to copulate with
nailer
noun
Cite this Entry
“Nail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nail. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.
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