Definition

A small piece of dead skin that is loose at the side or base of a fingernail.

Example

She accidentally pulled off a hangnail while doing her nails.

Conversation

I think I have a hangnail on my finger, it hurts a bit.

Ouch! Those can be really annoying.

Yeah, I just hope it doesn't get worse and cause an infection.

Definitely! Make sure to keep it clean and maybe put some ointment on it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hangnail is formed from "hang" (from Old English "hangian", meaning to suspend or be suspended) and "nail" (from Old English "nægel", meaning a small pointed metal pin or claw). The word describes a small piece of skin that hangs or is suspended near the nail.

Memory Tip

Think of a small piece of skin that is 'hanging' ('hang') near your 'nail' — that's what a hangnail is.

Visually Confused Words