Definition

Noun: A cosmetic lacquer that dries quickly and is applied to fingernails or toenails to color them or make them shiny. It is a type of decorative paint for nails.

Usage

"Nail enamel" is used as a countable noun. It refers to the bottled product itself or the coating applied to a nail. * You apply nail enamel. * You remove nail enamel. * You buy a bottle of nail enamel.

Examples

• She applied a coat of bright red nail enamel.
• This brand of nail enamel is known for its long-lasting shine.
• I need to buy some nail enamel remover.

Advanced Usage

The term "nail enamel" is a formal or technical term. In everyday modern English, the common term is nail polish or simply polish. "Nail enamel" may be used in product descriptions or brand names to suggest a high-quality, durable finish.

Variants and Related Words

• Nail polish (n.): The most common synonym for nail enamel.
• Nail varnish (n.): A synonym commonly used in British English.
• Lacquer (n.): A broader term for a liquid that dries to form a hard, shiny coating; sometimes used interchangeably with nail enamel.
• Manicure (n.): A cosmetic treatment for the hands and fingernails, which often includes applying nail enamel.

Synonyms

• Nail polish
• Nail varnish
• Lacquer (in the context of cosmetics)

Antonyms

• Nail enamel remover is the product used to take it off, not a direct antonym. There is no true single-word antonym.

Related Phrases

• Base coat: A clear or strengthening nail enamel applied before the colored coat.
• Top coat: A clear, protective nail enamel applied over the colored coat.
• Nail art: Decorative designs created on nails using nail enamel and other tools.

Noun

1. a cosmetic lacquer that dries quickly and that is applied to the nails to color them or make them shiny