gnaw

verb

ˈnȯ How to pronounce gnaw (audio)
Definition of gnawnext
as in to erode
to consume or wear away gradually time has gnawed that author's reputation to the point where he rates little more than a footnote

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of gnaw Kelsey passes around a bowl of clam shells with questions written on them as Liz gnaws on a corn on the cob. — Tom Smyth, Vulture, 15 June 2026 Mice can and will gnaw through most softer materials. — Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 14 June 2026 All of which raises one gnawing little question. — Kyle Wagner, New York Daily News, 11 June 2026 Using its large, continuously growing incisors — which resemble those of rodents more than those of other primates — the aye-aye starts to gnaw its way through the wood. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 10 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for gnaw
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gnaw
  1. erode
  2. eat
Verb
  • The new king must steady royal fortunes amid damaging scrutiny of Queen Mette-Marit’s past ties to Jeffrey Epstein and stepson Marius Høiby’s rape conviction, which has eroded public support for the monarchy.
    — Jan M. Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026
  • The new home of Engine 8 — staffed by 12 firefighters who work in four-person crews — replaces its previous facility, which traces its origins back to 1913 and sits on the eroding west bank of Coyote Creek four blocks away.
    — Sal Pizarro, Mercury News, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of erode
Verb
  • The quality of your diet is more important than fasting; eating nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats supports brain health.
    — Teresa Maalouf, Verywell Health, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Where to eat and drink The 1947 classic Cattlemen's Steak House, which was given a new life—along with a members-only club in its basement—by mega-producer Taylor Sheridan, features modern steakhouse go-tos.
    — Christine Lennon, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of eat

Phrases Containing gnaw

Browse Nearby Words

gnashing
gnaw
gnaw (at)
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Cite this Entry

“Gnaw.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gnaw. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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