nudge
UK[nʌdʒ]US[nʌdʒ]
v
to push someone or something gently, usually with your elbow, in order to get their attention
v
to encourage or persuade someone to do something in a gentle way
n
a gentle push, usually with the elbow
Etymology
the word 'nudge' entered english in the late 17th century, and its origins are somewhat obscure but point strongly to a scandinavian source. it is akin to words like norwegian dialect 'nugge' and swedish 'nygga', which carry the core sense of a light push or jostle. this connection places it within a family of germanic words describing small, sharp movements. the word's journey into english reflects a pattern of borrowing specific, vivid actions for which no exact synonym existed, filling a lexical gap for a gentle, often persuasive, physical prompt. over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to include the act of gently encouraging someone towards a decision or action, retaining the core idea of a small but significant impetus.
Analysis
this word is a simplex form. it is likely of scandinavian origin, related to norwegian 'nugge' and swedish 'nygga', both meaning 'to push or rub'. its functional role is as a base verb or noun.
Examples
she nudged me and pointed towards the window.
we're trying to nudge the company towards more environmentally friendly policies.
he gave the door a nudge with his shoulder to open it.