How Do You Spell HANGNAIL?

Pronunciation: [hˈaŋne͡ɪl] (IPA)

Hangnail is a common word in the English language that refers to a small piece of torn skin near the base of a fingernail or toenail. It is spelled with an "h" at the beginning, followed by the letters "a," "n," "g," "n," "a," and "i," and then an "l" at the end. The word is pronounced /ˈhæŋneɪl/, with the stress on the first syllable, and the sounds /ŋ/ and /eɪ/ represented by the letters "n" and "ai," respectively. The spelling of hangnail reflects its origin as a compound word combining "hang" and "nail."

HANGNAIL Meaning and Definition

1. A hangnail is a small piece of torn skin that forms near the edge of a fingernail or toenail. It usually appears as a painful, irritating strip of skin that hangs or dangles from the side of the nail, hence the term "hangnail." Hangnails often occur due to dryness, injury, or excessive nail biting, causing the delicate cuticle to become damaged or pull away from the nail plate.

   Typically, hangnails are characterized by their reddened appearance and tenderness, often causing discomfort or pain when touched or moved. They can be rather bothersome, as they are prone to catching on clothing, jewelry, or even while performing simple tasks like brushing one's hair.

   To treat a hangnail, it is recommended to avoid picking or tearing at it, as this may further worsen the condition, leading to potential infection. Instead, gently trimming the excess skin using sterilized nail clippers or nail scissors is advisable. Applying moisturizers or cuticle creams can help soften the skin around the nail and prevent future hangnails. Additionally, keeping nails adequately moisturized and avoiding excessive filing or trauma to the cuticles can aid in preventing hangnail formation.

   While hangnails are generally harmless, they can sometimes become infected if not properly cared for. In such cases, signs like increased pain, redness, swelling, or pus formation might indicate an infection and require medical attention.

2. A tearing up of a strip of epidermis at the side of the nail; agnail.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for HANGNAIL

• gangnail
• hagnail
• hangnaiil
• sangrael
• hangbies
• hangneal
• hangnaile
• Avinteil

Etymology of HANGNAIL

The word "hangnail" originated from the combination of two separate words: "hang" and "nail".

"Hang" trace back to the Old English word "hōn" meaning "to hang", which came from the Proto-Germanic word "hanhan". Over time, "hōn" developed into "hang", and its meaning evolved to include the concept of being suspended or attached.

The term "nail" comes from the Old English word "nægl" or "nægel", which is believed to have a common Germanic origin. "Nail" refers to the hard, horny covering on the upper surface of the fingertips and toes.

When combined, "hang" and "nail" form the word "hangnail".

Similar spelling words for HANGNAIL

• hanging,
• hang on,
• hanging fly,
• hannigan,
• hang in,
• hangman.

Plural form of HANGNAIL is HANGNAILS