A nail is a small sharp object made of metal. People use it to join or hold things, especially wood, by hitting it in with a hammer.
I use a nail to fix the picture.
She hammered the nail into the wall.
A nail is the hard, flat covering at the end of your fingers or toes. People often take care of their nails by cutting or painting them.
She painted her nails red today.
His nail broke while playing.
To nail something means to do it very well or successfully. People say this when someone makes no mistakes or is exact.
She nailed her exam with good answers.
He nailed the presentation yesterday.
In informal talk, to nail someone means to hit, catch, or surprise them very strongly or suddenly.
The boxer nailed his opponent quickly.
She nailed him with a surprise question.
A nail can also mean a type of long, thick metal pin used in building or making things strong.
This large nail holds the bridge safely.
The carpenter used steel nails here.
To nail something means to put nails into it, usually with a hammer, to hold it in place.
He nailed the wood to the door.
They nailed the boards together fast.
In formal use, to nail someone means to catch them for doing something wrong or to prove they are guilty.
The police nailed the thief last night.
She nailed the criminal in court.
