Synonyms of gnaws

gnaws

verb

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• erodes
• eats
• corrodes
• destroys
• bites (at)
• decomposes
• frets
• nibbles
• disintegrates
• dissolves
• ruins
• wastes
• decimates
• devastates
• breaks down
• breaks up
• wrecks

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• restores
• renews
• revives
• regenerates
• refreshes
• recreates
• freshens
• rejuvenates
• revitalizes
• refreshens

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of gnaws

If an owner reacts strongly every time the cat gnaws on a cord, the cat may learn that chewing gets a response. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 July 2026

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

The end of his tenure with the Cubs gnaws it him. — Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025