chivy

Nag someone along

Chivy, also spelled chivvy, means to harass or nag someone persistently, usually to get them to do something.

It suggests a kind of relentless pestering rather than a single demand.

She chivied him into finally cleaning out the garage.

The word is more common in British English than American English and often implies a wearing-down quality to the pressure applied.

harass

pester

Annoy with persistence

bother · torment · persecute · bully · intimidate · browbeat · pick on · needle · plague · harangue

urge

hurry

Move with urgency

  • rushQuick sudden movement
  • prodJab to spur action
  • goadIncite to action

spur · nag · hustle · pressure · push · prompt · nudge · harry · drive · herd

chase

pursue

Follow to catch

trail · stalk · hound · tail · shadow · run after · give chase · dog · course

Opposites
persistence/pressure

chivyleave alone

Refrain from disturbing

let be · ignore · back off · lay off · relent

emotional effect on target

chivysoothe

Gently ease discomfort

comfort · placate · mollify · calm · pacify

Family

chivvy, chivied, chivvying, chivvied, chivvies

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Timeless · Everyday, not technical · Rated G