# nag

/ˈnæɡ/ (US) · /nˈæɡ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nag
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

to keep asking someone to do something in an annoying way. You usually do this because you are worried or want to be helpful, but the other person finds it frustrating.

For teachers: to annoy someone by making persistent demands or complaints. Often used with 'at' when referring to the person being addressed.

## Examples

- My parents always nag me to clean my room.
- I hate to nag, but you really need to finish that report before the meeting starts.
- While some managers believe constant reminders ensure productivity, they often find that if they nag their employees too frequently, morale and independent initiative begin to decline.

## Usage notes

- The verb can be used intransitively or transitively; when followed by a person, it often takes the preposition 'at'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.