to the quick



to the quick

1. To the exposed flesh, especially that which is tender. I've bitten my fingernails to the quick, and still, I can't stop myself!
2. To the deepest, most fragile part of oneself. Typically used to describe emotional wounds. I can't even look at her right now—that hurtful remark cut me right to the quick.
See also: quick

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Ottilieo-TEE-lee-əGerman
Nikias-Ancient Greek
Shantanu-Hinduism, Indian, Hindi, Marathi, Bengali
VikkiVIK-eeEnglish
ValentÍNbah-len-TEEN (Spanish)Spanish, Slovak
Pellegrino-Italian