What does nudge mean?
A nudge is a small movement or a gentle prompt intended to produce a response. Used as a verb, it can mean pushing someone or something slightly, as when one nudges a door open, and it can also mean encouraging someone to remember or act. “Give someone a nudge” is a familiar expression for providing a modest reminder or impetus. The figurative use is often warmer and less forceful than “demand” or “command,” although context can make the encouragement feel persistent. As a noun, a nudge may refer to a slight physical push, a reminder, or a small change in behavior or circumstances. The word is common in British and American English and is also used in specialized contexts, such as describing gentle prompts that influence decisions without directly restricting them.
To push or move someone or something slightly; to give someone a gentle reminder or encouragement.
"Nudge the pot gently so the sauce does not burn."
Figurative uses often suggest indirect or gentle persuasion rather than direct force.
A slight push, or a gentle reminder or encouragement to act.
"The extra day gave him the nudge he needed to submit the work."
The expression “give someone a nudge” is especially idiomatic.
The plural is used for individual light pushes, reminders, or prompts.
"A few gentle nudges from his friends helped him apply for the job."
A nudge can physically move an object, but it can also make someone reconsider, remember, or finally act.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nudge come from?
The word appears in early modern English, but its precise origin is uncertain. It developed both as a verb meaning to push or move something slightly and as a noun meaning a light push. Its modern figurative senses, especially those involving encouragement or reminder, grew naturally from the physical sense of a small push.
Related word forms
How nudge is actually used
The figurative senses are common in both formal and informal English and often carry a gentle, persuasive tone rather than a forceful one. In discussions of behavior and public policy, a nudge can also mean a subtle intervention intended to encourage a choice without forbidding alternatives.