Gnawing Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈnɔːwɪŋ/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A feeling of persistent and troublesome desire or unease, often accompanied by feelings of anxiety or discomfort.

Examples

The gnawing feeling in her stomach indicated that she was getting nervous before the exam.
The unknown risks of the new business venture kept him up at night, plagued by gnawing doubts.
The sweet, gnawing feeling of anticipation as he waited for his favorite musician to take the stage.
The thought of facing the challenges ahead filled her with gnawing anxiety.
The gnawing sense of uncertainty made it difficult for her to focus on her work.
The memories of the past gnawed at her, leaving a sour taste in her mouth.

Synonyms

Cravings
Sympathy
Worry

Antonyms

Satisfaction
Relief
Comfort

Etymology

The word “gnawing” originates from the Old English word “gnæwan”, meaning “to gnaw” or “to bite persistently”. This sense of persistent action or insistence is still present in the modern definition of the word.

Usage Notes

Gnawing is often used to describe a feeling of persistent desire or unease that cannot be satiated or alleviated. It can be used to describe a wide range of emotions, from physical cravings to emotional worries.

Cultural References

The phrase “a gnawing sense of doubt” is often used to describe the feeling of uncertainty that people experience in situations where they are unsure of what to expect or what the outcome will be.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

A gnawing in the stomach, a gnawing at the heart, etc.

Related Words or Phrases

Craving
Appetite
Doubt
Anxiety
Uncertainty

Collocations

A gnawing sense of unease
A gnawing feeling in the stomach
A gnawing doubt in her mind
A gnawing sensation in her finger

Frequency of Use

The word “gnawing” is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it can be found in literary and poetic contexts where the author is trying to convey a sense of persistent desire or unease.

Common Misspellings

Gernwing
Genawing
Grnawing