gnawing
UK: ˈnɔːɪŋ | US: ˈnɔːɪŋ
adj. causing persistent physical or mental discomfort
adj. persistently worrying or distressing
v. present participle of gnaw: to bite or chew persistently
The word gnawing originates from the Old English gnagan, meaning "to gnaw or bite repeatedly," likely imitative of the sound or action of chewing. The suffix -ing forms the present participle, turning the verb into an adjective describing a continuous or lingering effect. Over time, gnawing evolved metaphorically to describe persistent mental or emotional distress, mirroring the physical act of gradual erosion.
The gnawing pain in his tooth kept him awake all night.
She felt a gnawing doubt about her decision.
The rabbit was gnawing on a carrot.
His gnawing anxiety made it hard to focus.
Hunger was gnawing at her stomach by midday.