gnaws

Definition of gnawsnext
present tense third-person singular of gnaw
as in erodes
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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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 gnaws The end of his tenure with the Cubs gnaws it him. Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gnaws
Verb
  • An analysis published by CX Today found that when AI use is hidden, trust erodes quickly, even when outcomes are accurate.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 2 Jan. 2026
  • Understanding that difference can prevent endless money conflicts because frugality builds a meaningful life, while cheapness slowly erodes joy.
    Brian Page, CNBC, 26 Dec. 2025
Verb
  • But no need to call in the food critics this year—the Golden Globes eats seemed to pass the taste test.
    Elise Taylor, Vanity Fair, 12 Jan. 2026
  • But everybody eats…from the drug dealers down on the corner to the CEOs of companies.
    Jared Kaufman, Twin Cities, 11 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Gnaws.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gnaws. Accessed 17 Jan. 2026.

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