Gnawing refers to the action of biting or chewing something persistently, often with a sense of urgency or discomfort. This behavior is commonly observed in animals, such as rodents, which use their strong teeth to break down food or materials. Gnawing can also occur in humans, often as a response to anxiety or stress, leading to habits like biting nails or chewing on pens. In addition to its behavioral aspects, gnawing can have practical implications. For instance, pets may gnaw on toys to relieve boredom or to maintain dental health. In nature, gnawing helps certain species, like beavers, to shape their environment by cutting down trees for building dams.