Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1960 (SND Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
KNAG, n.3, v. Also knagg; hna(a)g, hnjag (Jak., Angus). See also Nag, n.1, v.1 [knɑg, hn(j)ɑ:g]
I. n. 1. Gnawing grief, heartache, pain (Ork. 1960).Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928):
Dat will be a knag at my heart.
2. A stale and mouldy taste. Cf. Kneggum, Nip.Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928):
Der's a knag wi' de bread.
II. v. Of pain: to gnaw, give twinges (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), 1914 Angus Gl.; Ork. 1960).
[Norw. dial. gnag, gnawing, importunity, gnaga, knaga, O.N. (g)naga, to gnaw.]
