gnash

verb

ˈnash How to pronounce gnash (audio)
gnashed; gnashing; gnashes
Synonyms of gnash

transitive verb

: to strike or grind (the teeth) together
gnash noun

Synonyms of gnash

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Examples of gnash in a Sentence

dogs gnashing their teeth
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The remaining eight were left to gnash their teeth on the shore. — Andrew Rice, New York Times, 31 May 2026 There has been plenty of teeth gnashing and finger-pointing in those big-city baseball markets. — Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 2 May 2026 In response, traditionalists have gnashed their teeth and complained that the dark essence of the music has been lost. — Sadie Sartini Garner, Pitchfork, 31 Mar. 2026 With goat horns, gnashing teeth and a long tongue to taste one's sins, Krampus is nothing short of horrifying. — Deena Prichep, NPR, 8 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gnash

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English gnasten

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gnash was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing gnash

Rhymes for gnash

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Browse Nearby Words

gnarly
gnash
gnash one's teeth
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Cite this Entry

“Gnash.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gnash. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

gnash

verb
ˈnash How to pronounce gnash (audio)
: to strike or grind (as the teeth) together

More from Merriam-Webster on gnash

Nglish: Translation of gnash for Spanish Speakers

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