nag
nag Lexical Profile
nag Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To harass, annoy, or urge someone persistently with complaints, fault-finding, or repeated requests.
"His parents continued to nag him about finishing his college applications before the deadline."
To cause persistent discomfort, anxiety, or low-level pain to someone (of a problem, doubt, or physical ache).
"A quiet doubt continued to nag at the detective long after the case was officially closed."
• noun
A person who persistently harangues, complains to, or finds fault with others.
"He tried not to sound like a nag when reminding his roommates to wash their dishes."
An act or instance of persistent complaining, scolding, or urging.
"After one gentle nag from his doctor, he finally scheduled the overdue physical exam."
A horse, especially one that is old, worn-out, or of inferior quality (Equus caballus).
"The old farmer hitched his tired gray nag to the wooden cart and headed toward the market."
• Rhymes for nag
Word Origin & Etymology
The verb and the noun referring to a persistent complainer entered English in the early 19th century from Scandinavian roots (compare Old Norse gnaga, meaning 'to gnaw' or 'to complain'). The noun meaning a horse dates to the 14th century (Middle English nagge) and is a separate word of uncertain Germanic origin.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.