What is the hard protective plate that protects the tips of the fingers or toes called?

The hard protective plate that shields the tips of the fingers or toes is known as the natural nail. This structure consists of keratin, a protein that contributes to its strength and durability. The natural nail serves not only as a protective barrier for the sensitive tissues underneath but also plays a significant role in enhancing one's dexterity.

The nail is firmly attached to the underlying nail bed, which provides nourishment, and its growth originates from the nail matrix, located beneath the cuticle area. Additionally, the groove around the nail, known as the nail groove, assists in guiding the nail's growth but does not constitute the nail itself. Therefore, the term "natural nail" accurately describes the hard, protective structure that we commonly see and is crucial for fingertip protection.