Gnawed: meaning, definitions and examples

action, past tense

Gnawed is the past tense of the verb gnaw, which refers to the action of biting or nibbling something persistently. It is often used to describe how animals, particularly rodents, consume food or chew on materials. The term can also be used metaphorically to indicate persistent worry or anxiety. In literature, it may evoke imagery of decay or erosion due to continuous wear. This verb is commonly associated with the actions of small animals, but it can apply to humans in contexts of anxiety or nervous habits.

bitten, chewed, masticated, nibbled

Examples of usage

• The mouse gnawed at the piece of cheese.

• She gnawed her fingernails in nervousness.

• The dog had gnawed on its toy until it was frayed.

• He gnawed through the rope to free himself.

• The children gnawed on the bones left from dinner.