Gnaw at

usgb
verb

To slowly damage or destroy something by continuing to attack it.

The constant stress was gnawing at him, damaging his mental health.
Visual representation of "gnaw at" - To slowly damage or destroy something by continuing to attack it.

Often appears as...

  • gnaw at one's conscience
  • gnaw at one's heart
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "gnaw at"
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Emotional Impact

Describes a process that causes continuous distress or harm over time.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
The insult from earlier was still gnawing at him hours later.
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Persistent Effect

'Gnaw at' indicates a gradual, often unnoticed problem that worsens.

Illustration for Persistent Effect
Rumors about the company's bankruptcy gnawed at the employees' morale.
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Metaphoric Use

Metaphorically connects to the literal act of an animal chewing persistently.

Illustration for Metaphoric Use
His failure in the exam gnawed at him, like a rodent on wood.
Visual representation of the word "Gnaw at"

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