gnaw

• Verb, das das ständige Beißen oder Kauen bezeichnet, oft so, dass etwas abgenutzt oder beschädigt wird; auch im übertragenen Sinn für nagende Gefühle wie Sorge oder Angst.

A verb used to indicate the act of biting or chewing persistently, often causing wear or damage, or to cause persistent worry or anxiety.

1. Bite or chew persistentlyB1formal

   To bite or chew on something repeatedly, especially with the teeth.

   Nagen

   • The dog gnawed on a bone for hours.
   • Rats gnawed through the wooden floorboards.
   • She gnawed her fingernails nervously.

   Synonymebitechampchewmunchnibble

2. Cause persistent worry or painB2formal

   To cause a feeling of constant anxiety, worry, or discomfort.

   Nagen

   • Guilt gnawed at his conscience for years.
   • The fear of failure gnawed at her mind.
   • Hunger gnawed at his stomach as he waited.

   Synonymebesethauntnagplaguetormentweigh on

Phrasal-Variantengnaw at