eightpenny nail

noun

eight·​pen·​ny nail ˌāt-ˌpe-nē- How to pronounce eightpenny nail (audio)
: a nail typically 2¹/₂ inches (6.35 centimeters) long

Word History

Etymology

from its original price per hundred

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of eightpenny nail was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near eightpenny nail

eightling

eightpenny nail

eight-pointed cross

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Eightpenny nail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eightpenny%20nail. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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