νύχι
Lemma: νύχι
Translation: nail; fingernail; toenail; claw (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ὄνυξ (onyx). The same root gives us the English word 'onyx', originally referring to the fingernail-like veining in the stone. Also related to Latin 'unguis' which gives us words like 'ungual' (relating to nails or claws).
Mnemonics
- Think of 'onyx' - the stone named after its resemblance to a fingernail
- νύχι sounds a bit like 'nooky' - imagine scratching with your nails
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Featured in many Greek expressions about determination and protection. Traditionally, some Greeks believe that cutting nails at night brings bad luck.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: νύχι means 'nail' while νύχτα means 'night'
This word:
Έσπασε το νύχι μου.
I broke my nail.
Confused word:
Η νύχτα είναι σκοτεινή.
The night is dark.
Notes: Despite similar spelling, these words are not etymologically related
Mnemonic: νύχι has an 'i' ending like 'nail-i', while νύχτα ends in 'a' like 'dark-a'