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.

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

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.

To worry excessively about something.

Stop gnawing over that mistake; it’s already done.