to bite or chew something repeatedly, often making a hole in it, to cause persistent discomfort or anxiety

gnaw away at, gnaw at someone's conscience, gnaw one's nails

Formal and Informal Expressions of gnaw

In different contexts, you can replace 'gnaw' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'chew, erode' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'munch, chomp' is a commonplace synonym.

gnaw: Explore its Definition & Usage

gnaw Definition

1to bite or chew something repeatedly, often making a hole in it
2to cause persistent discomfort or anxiety

Using gnaw: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gnaw" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The dog was gnawing on a bone.
Example
The rat had gnawed a hole in the wall.
Example
The thought of failure gnawed at her all day.
Example
The guilt of his actions gnawed at him.

gnaw Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for gnaw

chew
munch
crunch
bite
wear away

Phrases with gnaw

gnaw away at
to erode or wear away gradually through persistent effort or action
Example
The constant exposure to water had gnawed away at the foundation of the building.
gnaw at someone's conscience
to cause feelings of guilt or remorse
Example
The knowledge of his wrongdoing gnawed at his conscience for years.
gnaw one's nails
to bite one's fingernails due to nervousness or anxiety
Example
She was so nervous about the exam that she spent the whole night gnawing her nails.

Origins of gnaw

from Old English 'gnagan'

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Summary: gnaw in Brief

The verb 'gnaw' [nɔː] refers to biting or chewing something repeatedly, often causing damage or erosion. It can also denote persistent discomfort or anxiety, as in 'The thought of failure gnawed at her all day.' 'Gnaw' extends into phrases like 'gnaw away at,' implying gradual erosion, and 'gnaw at someone's conscience,' indicating feelings of guilt or remorse.