nudge
/nʌdʒ/
verb
Origin
Unknown
Unknown — Likely expressive or onomatopoeic origin.
Overview
Meaning Now
- To push or prod gently, especially with the elbow, in order to alert or encourage someone.
- To move something or someone slightly or gradually in a specific direction.
- To encourage or urge someone to do something through gentle persuasion.
Language path
Middle English → English
Earliest form
nudge
Earliest period
17th century
Journey
The word likely emerged from English dialect or regional slang, characterized by its expressive phonetic qualities that mimic the physical action of a small, blunt push.
Evolution
- 17th century
nudge
“To poke or push gently.”
First recorded as a verb for poking with the elbow.
- 19th century
nudge
“To influence or encourage slightly.”
Figurative extension to persuasion.
Connections
Word parts
nudge
root
To push gently
Related across languages
Norwegian
nugga
to rub
Middle Low German
nuggen
to push or rub
Related words
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Related to nudge
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.