1. the whitish crescent-shaped area at the base of a fingernail or toenail
Usage: anatomy
2. a crescent-shaped ornament or marking
Usage: archaeology; decorative arts

Examples

• The lunula is most visible on the thumb and big toe.
• Some people have very prominent lunulae on their fingernails.
• The absence of lunulae can sometimes indicate health issues.
• Ancient Roman jewelry often featured gold lunulae as decorative elements.
• The archaeologist discovered bronze lunulae dating back to the Bronze Age.
• Her manicurist carefully avoided the delicate lunula area.
• The crescent-shaped lunula gleamed white against her pink nail bed.