Synonyms for

Nail

Verb / neɪl / Another word for nail — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a small, thin piece of metal with a sharp point at one end and a flat head at the other, used especially for fastening pieces of wood together

Synonyms & similar words

smash pinpoint pickup ace apprehend blast peg naildown arrest breezethrough sailthrough complete collar passwithflyingcolors nab cop sweepthrough boom spike pin tack screw rivet fastener peg staple brad clout peg rod stake stud spear awl drift prick spur thorn

Synonyms by register

Formal

fastener pin peg

Informal

tack brad

Literary

spike stake

Antonyms

release loosen free unfasten detach disconnect

Common collocations

  • hammer a nail
  • nail polish
  • fingernail
  • toenail
  • nail down
  • nail file
  • nail clipper
  • hit the nail on the head

Word family

noun nail
verb nail

Usage note

The verb 'nail' can mean to fasten something with a nail, or to succeed at something perfectly. 'Hit the nail on the head' is a common idiom meaning to be exactly right.

Example sentences

  1. He hit the nail on the head with his suggestion.
  2. I need to buy some nails to fix the fence.
  3. The carpenter used a nail to join the two pieces of wood together.
  4. She painted her nails bright red for the party.
  5. The horseshoe was held on with nails.

Quotes

  • If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail. - Abraham Maslow
  • A politician is just like a pickpocket; it's almost impossible to nail them, and when you do, they still escape. - Jacob Zuma
  • The best way to have a good idea is to have lots of ideas. - Linus Pauling

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