Nail in the coffin


noun phrase

Something that hastens defeat or death: The Houston convention was one very big nail in Bush’s re-election coffin/ Whittle’s proposal is the first nail in the coffin of public education (1824+)

Read Also:

  • Nail-patella syndrome

    nail-patella syndrome n. See onychoosteodysplasia.

  • Nail pit

    nail pit n. One of the small depressions on the surface of the nail plate caused by defective nail formation.

  • Nail-polish

    noun 1. a polish of quick-drying lacquer, either clear or colored, used to paint the fingernails or toenails. noun 1. a quick-drying lacquer applied to colour the nails or make them shiny or esp both

  • Nail-scissors

    noun, (usually used with a plural verb) 1. small scissors with short curved blades for trimming the fingernails or toenails.

  • Nail-set

    noun 1. a short rod of steel used to drive a nail below or flush with a surface. noun 1. a punch for driving the head of a nail below or flush with the surrounding surface


Disclaimer: Nail in the coffin definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.