Definition

A small, painful piece of skin that hangs around the edge of a fingernail or toenail.

Example

She had to be careful not to bump her agnail while typing.

Conversation

I think I have an agnail again; it really hurts.

Ouch! Those can be so painful.

Yeah, I should probably take care of it before it gets worse.

Definitely! Maybe some warm water and a little cream will help.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Agnail → The word 'agnail' comes from Old English 'agnail', which means a hangnail or a nail that is torn or broken. It refers specifically to a piece of skin that is torn near the nail.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'hangnail' as a nail that is 'torn' or 'broken' — that's what 'agnail' refers to.

Visually Confused Words