GNAWING AT Meaning and
Definition
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Gnawing at is a phrase used to describe a persistent, nagging, or intense feeling of discomfort, agitation, or unease that is often associated with a specific issue, concern, or thought. This expression conveys the idea of a continuous and repetitive action similar to how a rodent gnaws on something steadily, wearing it down over time.
The phrase "gnawing at" is often used to describe emotional or psychological experiences. It implies a state of mental distress, restlessness, or discontentment that seems to consume a person's thoughts or emotions. This feeling can be compared to the relentless gnawing, chewing, or nibbling action of a rodent on an object, gradually eroding it.
The phrase is often used metaphorically to express the persistent and bothersome nature of certain thoughts, worries, or concerns that plague an individual. It suggests a sense of unease that is difficult to shake off, as if it is eating away at one's peace of mind. For example, one may say, "The fear of failure was constantly gnawing at him, preventing him from taking risks and pursuing his dreams."
In summary, the phrase "gnawing at" refers to a persistent and irksome feeling of discomfort or unease that tends to occupy one's thoughts or emotions, similar to how a rodent constantly gnaws on an object.
Common Misspellings for GNAWING AT
- fnawing at
- vnawing at
- bnawing at
- hnawing at
- ynawing at
- tnawing at
- gbawing at
- gmawing at
- gjawing at
- ghawing at
- gnzwing at
- gnswing at
- gnwwing at
- gnqwing at
- gnaqing at
- gnaaing at
- gnasing at
- gnaeing at
- gna3ing at
- gna2ing at
Etymology of GNAWING AT
The word "gnawing" is derived from the verb "gnaw". The verb "gnaw" dates back to the Old English period, where it was spelled "gnagan". It is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word "gnaganą", which means "to gnaw" or "to nibble". This word can be traced back further to the Proto-Indo-European root *gneg- or *geneg-, meaning "to bite" or "to chew". The term "gnawing at" is a figurative expression used to describe a persistent or nagging feeling that is metaphorically likened to the action of animals gnawing or chewing on something.
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