nail bed

[ nahyl bed ]

noun

1. the dermis and epidermis under a fingernail or toenail.

Word History and Origins

Origin of nail bed¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

Psoriasis, for instance, can affect the toenails, making them thicker and possibly even causing them to separate from the nail bed.

From Washington Post

If a lamp is not at least 36 watts or the correct wavelength, the acrylates - a group of chemicals used to bond the gel - do not dry properly, penetrating the nail bed and surrounding skin, causing irritation and allergies.

From BBC

A veterinarian will cut off the nail bed and part of the bone, leaving a cavity that makes it painful for cats to walk or use a litter box.

From Washington Post

The nail bed remains blackened, but the swelling has subsided.

From Seattle Times

Lindor’s right middle finger was swollen and the nail bed was blackened.

From Seattle Times