Langimage
English

nag

|nag|

B2

/næɡ/

persistent annoyance

Etymology
Etymology Information

'nag' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'naggen,' where 'nag' meant 'to gnaw or bite.'

Historical Evolution

'naggen' transformed into the modern English word 'nag' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to gnaw or bite,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to annoy persistently.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person who persistently annoys or criticizes others.

He is such a nag when it comes to cleanliness.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to annoy or irritate someone by persistent fault-finding or urging.

She would nag him about his messy room.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45