Nag Meaning and Definition
Nag
Pronunciation
/næɡ/
Part of Speech
Noun or Verb
Definition
A nag is a castrated male horse or other equine, typically kept for riding or other domestic purposes; a person who is annoyingly persistent in giving unwanted advice or advice, often in a whining or complaining manner.
Examples
- The stable kept several nags for riding lessons.
- Stop nagging me about my driving habits!
Synonyms
- goad
- pester
Antonyms
- exhort
- encourage
Etymology
The word “nag” comes from the Irish word “nag” meaning “he-goat”, and was first used in the 14th century to describe a castrated male horse.
Usage Notes
When using the word “nag” as a noun, it typically refers to an equine, whereas as a verb, it implies annoyance or annoyance-causing behavior.
Cultural References
The word “nag” has appeared in popular culture, such as in literature and film, often to describe a character’s persistent and annoying behavior.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Expressions such as “nagging away” or “nagging voice” convey the idea of persistent annoyance.
Related Words or Phrases
- Pester
- Harass
Collocations
- Nagging doubts
- Nagging voice
Frequency of Use
The word “nag” is relatively uncommon in everyday language, but its usage has increased in recent years due to its versatility and varied meanings.
Common Misspellings
- Nager
- Nagg