manicure
MAN-ih-kyoor
/ˈmænɪkjʊər/
A cosmetic treatment of the hands and fingernails, involving shaping, polishing, and skin care.
A manicure specifically targets the hands and fingernails, focusing on both aesthetic appeal and skin health.
The story behind the word. Entering English in the late 19th century from French, manicure is directly derived from the Latin words 'manus' (meaning hand) and 'cura' (meaning care). It literally means the care of the hands.
Word relationships
- hand treatment: Hand treatment is a broader term that can include massages and masks, while a manicure specifically focuses on nail grooming.
Commonly confused with
- pedicure: A manicure is for the hands, whereas a pedicure is specifically for the feet.
Word family
- manicurist (noun): A person who gives manicures professionally.
- manicured (adjective): Neatly trimmed and groomed, often used metaphorically for lawns.
Collocations
- get a manicure
- give a manicure
- french manicure
- gel manicure
Example sentences
- "She treated herself to a professional manicure at the salon to prepare for her job interview." A lifestyle article about weekend relaxation routines.
Memory hook
MANicure is for your MANos (Spanish for hands) or MANual labor hands. Hand care.
When not to use
Do not use this term when referring to treatments for the feet or toenails.
Fun facts
- The concept of the manicure dates back over 5,000 years, with ancient Babylonian noblemen using solid gold tools to groom their nails.
- The term 'manicured lawn' borrows this word to describe grass that is perfectly trimmed and maintained.
Explore more words
Grooming, aesthetician, dermatology, reflexology, conditioner, clippers
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