verb
Uncommon
nudge
nuhj
Nudge (verb) means to push someone or something gently, often to get their attention. Example: “She nudged him under the table to stop him mentioning the surprise.”
verb
1
To push someone or something gently, often to get their attention.
"She nudged him under the table to stop him mentioning the surprise."
"He nudged the door open with his shoulder."
noun
1
A gentle push or prompt.
"All he needed was a nudge in the right direction."
How to use nudge
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA light push, physically or as a gentle hint or reminder.
Common pairings
a gentle nudge
nudge someone
need a nudge
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Word forms
- Plural
- nudges
- Third person singular
- nudges
- Past tense
- nudged
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ him under the table to stop him mentioning the surprise.
Etymology
Dates from around the 17th century, likely related to Scandinavian words for "push" or "rub," such as Norwegian nugge.
Class of 1600
nudge joined the language around 1600.
See the full Class of 1600 →
Related words
Rhymes for nudge
See all rhymes for nudge →Frequently asked questions
What does “nudge” mean?
The word “nudge” means to push someone or something gently, often to get their attention. In plain terms, a light push, physically or as a gentle hint or reminder.
How do you pronounce “nudge”?
“Nudge” is pronounced nuhj (/nʌd͡ʒ/ in IPA).
How do you use “nudge” in a sentence?
Here is “nudge” used in a sentence: “She nudged him under the table to stop him mentioning the surprise.”
What is another word for “nudge”?
Words with a similar meaning to “nudge” include bump, disrupt, disturb, jog, poke and push.
What is the opposite of “nudge”?
The opposite of “nudge” — its antonyms — are pull and tug.
What part of speech is “nudge”?
Depending on how it is used, “nudge” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “nudge” come from?
The word “nudge” dates back to around 1600 and comes from Norwegian. Dates from around the 17th century, likely related to Scandinavian words for "push" or "rub," such as Norwegian nugge.
Is “nudge” a common word?
“Nudge” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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