nagging

[ nag-ing ]

adjective

1. continually faultfinding, complaining, or petulant:

   a nagging parent.

2. persistently recurring; unrelenting:

   a nagging backache.

Other Words From

• nagging·ness noun
• un·nagging adjective
• un·nagging·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of nagging¹

First recorded in 1830–40; nag ¹ + -ing ²

Example Sentences

The 17-year old Ola lives in Poland with her nagging mother and a brother who, because of his disabilities, needs hands-on care.

From New York Times

But I had one more place to go to confirm a nagging instinct.

From Salon

The buzzing sound of UAVs has been ubiquitous in Gaza since 2006, and drones are called zenana, an Arabic word referring to the sound using the slang term for a nagging wife.

From Salon

“It’s like having a nagging wife,” Boo Boo cracked.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, there is a nagging doubt England may have a few too many boys and not enough men.

From BBC

Related Words

• aching
• agonizing
• excruciating
• grievous
• inflamed
• severe
• terrible
• throbbing
• troublesome