What term refers to the portion of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip?

The portion of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip is referred to as the free edge. This part of the nail is the visible part that grows out past the nail bed and is typically the area that is trimmed during manicures and pedicures. The free edge provides protection to the underlying nail structure and allows for the functional aspect of the nail, as it enables a more effective grasp and interaction with objects.

In terms of the other options, the nail matrix is the tissue located beneath the base of the nail, where new nail cells are produced. The nail bed is the skin underneath the nail plate that supports its structure. The nail plate is the hard, protective part of the nail that is visible and can be polished or painted. While all these components play important roles in nail health and growth, they do not refer to the portion that extends beyond the fingertip, which is uniquely designated as the free edge.