I. ˈnag noun
Etymology: Middle English nagge; akin to Dutch negge small horse
Date: 15th century
: horse ; especially : one that is old or in poor condition
II. verb
( nagged ; nag·ging )
Etymology: probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse nagga to moan, complain
Date: circa 1828
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
2. : badger , worry
• nag·ger noun
• nagging adjective
• nag·ging·ly ˈna-giŋ-lē adverb
III. noun
Date: 1925
: one who nags habitually