Gnaw Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gnaw
[nɔː ]
Definitions
action
To bite or chew on something repeatedly, often making a loud, unpleasant noise.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The dog would gnaw on his bone for hours.
- She could hear the mouse gnawing on the wood in the walls.
- The baby likes to gnaw on his teething ring.
- The beaver gnawed through the tree trunk with ease.
- The termite gnawed away at the wooden structure.
sound
A persistent, annoying sound of something being chewed or gnawed on.
Synonyms
chewing noise, nibbling sound.
Examples of usage
- The gnaw of the mouse in the walls kept her awake at night.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Animal Behavior
- Many rodents, like mice and squirrels, gnaw on wood and other materials to keep their teeth from growing too long.
- In the wild, animals often gnaw on bones for nutrients, helping them maintain a healthy diet.
- Some birds, like parrots, also engage in gnawing to strengthen their beaks and maintain their health.
Symbolism in Literature
- In literature, gnawing can symbolize persistent worry or anxiety, suggesting something eating away at a character's peace.
- Gnawing often represents the slow deterioration of something over time, whether it's a relationship or a structure.
- Poetic texts frequently use the term to depict inner struggles, where something intangible is continuously 'chewed on.'
Cultural Practices
- In some cultures, gnawing on certain foods is a communal activity, bringing families together during mealtime.
- Chewing betel nut is common in some Asian cultures, which is similar to gnawing, as it involves prolonged chewing.
- The act of gnawing can symbolize the human tendency to persistently tackle problems, reflecting determination.
Origin of 'gnaw'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gnaw' originated from Old English 'gnagan,' which means 'to bite or nibble.'
- It is related to similar words in German ('nagen') and Dutch ('knagen'), all emphasizing the idea of biting.
- The silent 'g' at the start of the word has roots in Middle English where such pronunciations were common.
The word 'gnaw' originated from the Old English word 'gnagan', which meant 'to gnaw'. This word has been used for centuries to describe the action of biting or chewing on something repeatedly. The sound of gnawing has been associated with rodents like mice and beavers, as well as the act of chewing on bones or hard objects. 'Gnaw' is a versatile word that captures the essence of persistent chewing or biting.