First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1nag
noun \ˈnag\
Definition of NAG
: horse; especially : one that is old or in poor condition
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Origin of NAG
Middle English nagge; akin to Dutch negge small horse
2nag
verb
: to annoy (someone) by often complaining about his or her behavior, appearance, etc.
: to annoy (someone) with repeated questions, requests, or orders
: to cause (someone) to feel annoyed or worried for a long period of time
naggednag·ging
Full Definition of NAG
intransitive verb
1
: to find fault incessantly : complain
2
: to be a persistent source of annoyance or distraction
transitive verb
1
: to irritate by constant scolding or urging
See nag defined for English-language learners
Origin of NAG
probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse nagga to moan, complain
First Known Use: circa 1828
3nag
noun
Definition of NAG
: one who nags habitually
First Known Use of NAG
1925
NAG Defined for Kids
1nag
verb \ˈnag\
naggednag·ging
Definition of NAG for Kids
1
: to annoy by repeated complaining, scolding, or urging <Mom nagged me to finish my homework.>
2
: to annoy continually or again and again <… Mrs. Frisby could not quite get rid of a nagging worry … — Robert C. O'Brien, Rats of NIMH>
2nag
noun
Definition of NAG for Kids
: an old and usually worn-out horse
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