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Definitions

nail

[neyl] / neɪl /
VERB
fasten, fix with pointed object
Synonyms
STRONGEST
attach hit pin tack whack
STRONG
beat bind drive hammer hold join pound secure sock spike strike
Antonyms
STRONGEST
detach separate unfasten
STRONG
give up halt let go loose loosen lose release stop untie
WEAK
liberate unnail
VERB
capture, arrest
Synonyms
STRONGEST
catch hook
STRONG
apprehend bag collar detain get nab pinch prehend secure seize take
Antonyms
STRONGEST
let go release
STRONG
fail free give liberate lose misunderstand offer receive
WEAK
unfasten unnail

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

EU leaders will still fight their corners tooth and nail, Magyar included.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

If one had to nail down the central theme of “The Audacity,” aside from pure human foible, it would be the perils posed to privacy by the profitability of data.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

The other reason was we were hammers and so we saw everything as a nail.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

Commercial nail polishes were used to test additives for formula compatibility and electrical performance.

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

Leigh the Bard tapped her metallic nail on her chin.

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova