Gnaw

To bite at or chew on with the teeth, especially persistently or compulsively; to wear away gradually; to cause persistent distress or anxiety. Gnawing involves a repetitive action, often with a scraping or grinding sound, to gradually diminish or erode a substance. It can describe a physical action, like a rodent gnawing on wood, or a metaphorical one, like worry gnawing at someone's mind. The process often results in the gradual reduction or destruction of the target.

Gnaw meaning with examples

• The hungry puppy would gnaw relentlessly on the furniture legs, leaving splinters scattered across the rug. He seemed determined to dismantle the entire table, his jaws working tirelessly on the tough wood. Despite our scolding, his gnawing continued, driven by an instinct we couldn't easily quell. This relentless biting action was a constant source of frustration.
• Years of sea water had gnawed away at the ancient cliffs, sculpting them into bizarre, almost surreal shapes. The relentless action of the tide, slowly chipping away at the rock face, was a testament to the power of nature's patient erosion. The wind and rain accelerated this process, highlighting the destructive power that wears down even the strongest materials.
• Anxiety began to gnaw at Sarah's peace of mind as the deadline approached. She couldn't shake off the feeling of dread about failing her project. Each unanswered email felt like a tiny bite eroding her confidence, the pressure mounting with every passing hour. This emotional strain manifested in sleepless nights and constant worry.
• The persistent rodent continued to gnaw at the electrical wires, creating a serious fire hazard. The sound of the creature's teeth against the plastic was a constant threat. This destructive habit required immediate intervention to avoid catastrophic results. Despite traps and deterrents, the pest kept returning, its behavior a constant cause of stress.
• The convict, imprisoned for life, allowed bitterness to gnaw at his soul, poisoning his existence. He had no desire to change. He let resentment fester inside, making it impossible to find any joy or peace. The gnawing pain of regret and anger consumed him, darkening the remainder of his life.