# nagging

/ˈnæɡɪŋ/ (US) · /nˈæɡɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nagging
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

describing a feeling or thought that stays in your mind and will not go away. It is often used for a small but constant worry or a physical pain that does not stop.

For teachers: persistently annoying or distressing; used to describe a recurring thought, doubt, or physical sensation that is difficult to ignore. Often used as a participial adjective before a noun.

## Examples

- She has a nagging feeling that she forgot her keys.
- Despite the doctor's reassurance, he couldn't shake the nagging doubt that something was seriously wrong.
- The athlete struggled to maintain her focus during the final set, hampered by a nagging injury in her left ankle that had flared up during the warm-up.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before nouns like 'doubt', 'feeling', 'pain', or 'worry'.

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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.