What is the technical term for the natural nail?

The natural nail is technically referred to as "onyx." This term derives from the Greek word for "fingernail" and is commonly used in the nail care industry to describe the hard keratin structure that protects the fingertip and enhances the dexterity of the fingers.

While "nail plate" is another term related to the natural nail, it specifically describes the visible part of the nail that sits on top of the nail bed. The nail matrix is the tissue under the base of the nail that produces the cells that form the nail plate, and the eponychium is the tissue that overlaps the nail plate at the base of the nail. Understanding these terms is crucial in the context of nail care, as they help differentiate between the structures and their functions. However, the term "onyx" specifically identifies the overall nail structure rather than particular parts or aspects of the nail.