What is the visible part of the nail called?

The visible part of the nail is referred to as the nail body. This structure constitutes the main part of the nail, extending from the nail matrix, where the nail grows, to the free edge at the tip. The nail body is composed of layers of keratin that contribute to its hardness and flexibility, allowing it to serve various functions, including protecting the underlying tissues of the fingers or toes and enhancing sensory perception.

The nail bed, while important in supporting the nail body, is located beneath the nail body and is not visible from the outside. The nail root is the part of the nail that is not visible because it is located under the cuticle, acting as the growth area situated beneath the skin. The lunula, the white crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail, is a part of the nail matrix but does not constitute the entire visible nail structure. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why the nail body is the correct answer, as it is the primary visible part of the nail that one typically observes.