sparrow-bill

A cobbler hammers a sparrow-bill into the heel of a boot.

Definition

Noun: A type of small, headless nail, specifically used in shoemaking to attach soles to boots or shoes.

Usage Examples

• (A headless nail used in shoemaking.)
• (A small nail without a head for attaching shoe parts.)

Advanced Usage

• "to drive a sparrow-bill": to hammer this specific nail into place.
  • The artisan drove a sparrow-bill carefully to avoid splitting the leather. (He hammered the small nail precisely.)

Variants and Related Words

• Sparrow-bill nail (n): a more explicit term for the same object, emphasizing its function as a nail.
  • The shoemaker used a sparrow-bill nail for the delicate repair. (A headless nail for shoemaking.)

Synonyms

• Headless nail: a nail without a protruding head, used for finishing work.
• Tack: a small, sharp-pointed nail often used in upholstery or light woodwork.

Related Idioms