What does nag mean?
To nag is to pursue a complaint, demand, or criticism with annoying persistence. The word emphasizes repetition rather than the severity of the issue: one concern may be perfectly reasonable, but repeatedly raising it can become a nuisance. As a verb, nag can describe constant criticism, complaints, or requests directed at another person. As a noun, a nag is someone who behaves in this way, while related uses can refer to the persistent act itself. In everyday English the term usually carries a mildly critical or humorous tone. It is particularly useful when describing situations in which someone keeps returning to the same subject, such as asking about an unpaid bill, criticizing untidy work, or repeatedly requesting help. Although nag is informal, it is widely understood in both British and American English and often conveys annoyance with a sense of humor rather than formal condemnation.
To annoy someone persistently by repeatedly criticizing, complaining, or asking for something.
"He nagged his roommate to pay the electricity bill."
The word is informal and negative. It emphasizes persistent repetition and can be used for repeated requests as well as complaints.
A person who persistently annoys or complains to others; more generally, a persistent complaint or source of irritation.
"Her constant criticism made every family gathering feel tense."
When referring to a person, the noun is usually derogatory, though it may be used jokingly.
The plural is normally used for multiple people who persistently complain or annoy others.
"The two nags followed him around the office until he finally answered their questions."
The word "nag" was already in English by the late 1500s—proof that persistent reminders are nothing new.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nag come from?
The verb is recorded in English by the late sixteenth century in the sense of worrying or irritating someone persistently. Its familiar noun use, meaning a person who persistently complains, developed from the verb. The word is traditionally connected with older Germanic forms associated with gnawing, including Old English næggian and Old Norse naga, with cognates represented by Dutch and German nagen.
Related word forms
How nag is actually used
The verb is informal and generally negative, but it can be less harsh than "annoy" when describing repeated reminders or requests. The noun is more derogatory and commonly labels a person as tiresome or overly persistent. Usage is broadly similar in British and American English.