Needling Meaning in English
word · lemma: needle
Definition
Needling means repeatedly annoying or provoking someone with small comments or actions. It can also refer to inserting needles, as in acupuncture.
Usage & Nuances
In informal spoken English, 'needling' usually means teasing or provoking someone in a subtle, sometimes irritating way—often as a joke. In medical or health contexts, it refers to acupuncture or similar procedures. Doesn't imply physical harm but can be emotionally annoying.
Example Sentences
Her brother kept needling her about her singing voice.
basic
The doctor uses needling to treat pain in some patients.
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He was needling his friend all day with silly jokes.
basic
Stop needling me about my haircut—I'm happy with it!
natural
A little friendly needling keeps our group laughing.
natural
There's some gentle needling between the rivals before every match.
natural