nail file

noun

1. a small file of metal or cardboard, for trimming, smoothing, or shaping the fingernails and sometimes having a point for removing dirt from under them.

Word History and Origins

Origin of nail file¹

An Americanism dating back to 1870–75

Example Sentences

Using these tools and a nail file that Starr had slipped in her pocket when she used the restroom, they cut the zip ties and came up with a plan.

From Los Angeles Times

"And you can sit there with a nail file and try to pry the chiton off; you will lose."

From Science Daily

They also found women’s jewelry and a metal nail file wrapped in a protective covering — items that investigators believed Mr. Koehler kept as souvenirs from his crimes.

From New York Times

Her collection includes bumper stickers, T-shirts - even a nail file - from her campaigns throughout the ‘70s, ’80s and ’90s, awards and commemorations, photographs, newspaper clippings, office nameplates and a copy of the 1993 pop art poster of former President Bill Clinton by Peter Max.

From Washington Times

Her collection includes bumper stickers, T-shirts — even a nail file — from her campaigns throughout the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s, awards and commemorations, photographs, newspaper clippings, office nameplates and a copy of the 1993 pop art poster of former President Bill Clinton by Peter Max.

From Seattle Times