A fingernail is the hard, flat part that covers the tip of each finger. It protects the finger and helps you pick up small objects and scratch surfaces.
It is a compound of “finger” and “nail,” both ancient Germanic words. The name simply describes a nail-like structure on the finger.
Fingernails are made of keratin, the same material as hair and animal horns, which is why they’re tough but flexible. Doctors can read clues about your health from your nails, turning these tiny plates into health reports.
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