gnaw
UK: nɔː | US: nɔː
vt./vi. to bite or chew persistently, often causing wear or damage
vt./vi. (figurative) to cause persistent mental distress or anxiety
The word "gnaw" traces back to Old English gnagan, meaning "to gnaw or bite repeatedly." It shares roots with related Germanic words like Dutch knagen and German nagen. The word’s structure is compact and indivisible, reflecting its ancient Germanic origin as a core verb describing repetitive biting action. Over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to describe persistent mental or emotional torment.
The dog gnawed on the bone until it was smooth.
Rats can gnaw through wooden doors to enter houses.
Anxiety began to gnaw at her as the deadline approached.
The old ropes were gnawed by termites over the years.
He felt guilt gnawing at his conscience after the mistake.