1873, "one who professionally treats hands and fingernails," from French manicure, literally "the care of the hands," from Latin manus "hand" (see manual) + cura "care" (see cure (n.1)). Meaning "treatment and care of the hands and fingernails" is attested from 1887.
manicure (v.)
1889, from manicure (n.). Related: Manicured; manicuring.
