gnaw: Meaning and Definition of

gnaw

1. to bite or chew on, esp. persistently.
2. to wear away or remove by persistent biting or nibbling.
3. to form or make by so doing: to gnaw a hole through the wall.
4. to waste or wear away; corrode; erode.
5. to trouble or torment by constant annoyance, worry, etc.; vex; plague.

1. to bite or chew persistently: The spaniel gnawed happily on a bone.
2. to cause corrosion: The acid gnaws at the metal.
3. to cause an effect resembling corrosion: Her mistake gnawed at her conscience.