hobnail

American  

[hob-neyl] / ˈhɒbˌneɪl /

noun

1. a large-headed nail for protecting the soles of heavy boots and shoes.

2. a small allover pattern consisting of small tufts, as on fabrics, or of small studs, as on glass.

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hobnail British  

/ ˈhɒbˌneɪl /

noun

1. 1. a short nail with a large head for protecting the soles of heavy footwear

   2. ( as modifier )

      hobnail boots

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Other Word Forms

• hobnailed
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of hobnail

First recorded in 1585–95; hob ¹ + nail

Example Sentences

The word "hobnail" first appears in a text attributed to Shakespeare, but it's difficult to imagine it arose from a creative poetic act.

From Salon • Sep. 24, 2022

If you know when and where to look, you can find sumptuous patches of violet blewits, a foreboding rust-colored tree pathogen called the “orange hobnail canker” and a honey-hued jelly fungi known as “witches’ butter.”

From New York Times • Apr. 15, 2021

A hobnail or a piece of wampum far exceeds it. 

From Forbes • Aug. 18, 2014

The air is filled with the stamp of hobnail boots landing on concrete on the command of a sergeant major.

From BBC • May 18, 2012

Orman also wore a pair of stout hobnail boots, and had a watch and chain.

From Anomalies and Curiosities of Medicine by Pyle, Walter L. (Walter Lytle)