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Hobnail Meaning in English

word

ˈhɑbˌneɪɫ
HAHB-nayl
hˈɒbneɪl
HOB-nayl

Definition

A short, thick nail with a large head, usually made of iron or steel, used to strengthen or reinforce the soles of heavy boots or shoes.

Usage & Nuances

'Hobnail' is mainly used in the context of boots or shoes, especially older or workwear styles. You may see 'hobnail boots' in historical or military references. Rare in everyday modern conversation; most common in historical, fashion, or shoemaking contexts.

Example Sentences

The worker's boots had hobnails on the soles for extra grip.

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Old army boots often used hobnails to last longer.

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He hammered a hobnail into the shoe.

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My grandfather used to wear hobnail boots when he went hiking in the mountains.

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The loud clicking sound on the street came from his hobnail boots.

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You don’t see many people wearing hobnails these days, except maybe in old movies.

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