gnaw
UK[nɔː]US[nɔː]
v
to bite something repeatedly, often making a hole in it or gradually destroying it
v
to cause persistent worry, pain, or distress
Etymology
the word 'gnaw' originates from the old english verb 'gnagan', meaning to gnaw or bite persistently. it shares a common germanic ancestor with related words in other languages, such as old high german 'gnagan' and old norse 'gnaga'. this root is likely onomatopoeic in origin, imitating the sound or action of persistent biting or scraping. over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to describe anything that persistently and destructively consumes or worries at something, much like teeth on wood.
Analysis
the word is an old english simplex verb. it is derived from the old english 'gnagan', which is of germanic origin.
Examples
the dog continued to gnaw on the old bone.
anxiety began to gnaw at her as the deadline approached.
you could see where rodents had gnawed through the cable.