Definition of nudge

The word "nudge" has a fascinating history. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the earliest recorded use of "nudge" dates back to the 14th century, where it meant "to thrust or push gently, often with the elbow." This sense of physical contact remained the primary meaning of the word until the 19th century. In the early 20th century, "nudge" took on a new connotation, specifically in the context of golf. Golfers would use a nudge to help their ball roll gently onto the green. This new sense of the word emphasized a gentle, subtle action rather than a strong or forceful one. Today, the word "nudge" has expanded to encompass a wide range of meanings, including a gentle encouragement or a soft prompt, often used in the context of politics, economics, and social behavior. The word's evolution from a physical action to a metaphorical one reflects our ever-changing language and its ability to adapt to new situations and contexts.