lunula

• Nom désignant une structure en forme de croissant, comme la zone pâle à la base de l'ongle humain ou un ornement métallique en croissant datant de l'âge du bronze.

A noun referring to a crescent-shaped structure, such as the pale area at the base of a human fingernail or a crescent-shaped metal ornament from the Bronze Age.

1. Crescent-shaped nail baseC1formalmedical

   The pale, crescent-shaped area at the bottom of a human fingernail or toenail, often most visible on the thumb.

   Lunule de l'ongle

   • The lunula is usually more prominent on the thumbnail.
   • A healthy lunula is white and clearly visible.
   • Some people with certain deficiencies may have a smaller or absent lunula.
   • The nail technician carefully examined the lunula before applying the gel.

   Synonymescrescenthalf-moonlunule

2. Bronze Age ornamentC2formalbritishart

   A crescent‑shaped metal ornament, typically made of gold or bronze, worn as a pendant or necklace during the Bronze Age.

   lunule de l'âge du bronze

   • The museum displayed a beautifully preserved lunula from 2000 BC.
   • Lunulae were often worn by high‑status individuals in ancient Ireland.
   • A gold lunula was discovered in the hoard during the excavation.
   • Researchers believe the lunula had both decorative and symbolic significance.