Gnaw

/nɔː/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To bite or chew on something persistently.
The dog began to gnaw on a bone it had found in the yard.
To cause persistent worry or distress.
Doubt continued to gnaw at her mind as she considered her decision.
To erode or wear away gradually.
Time and the elements have gnawed at the old rock formations.

Etymology

Middle English 'gnawen', from Old English 'gnagan'; related to German 'nagen'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

gnaw at one's conscience
To feel guilty about something that bothers you.
gnawing doubts
Persistent and troubling uncertainties.
gnawing hunger
A constant and nagging feeling of hunger.

Related Words

gnawer
An animal or person that gnaws.
gnawing
The act of biting or chewing persistently.
gnawed
Past tense of gnaw.

Slang Meanings

To worry excessively about something.
Stop gnawing over that mistake; it’s already done.