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wag
When used as a verb, the most common association is with animals, specifically dogs. In this context, it carries a strong connotation of happiness, excitement, or friendliness. However, when applied to humans, specifically "wagging a finger," the meaning shifts entirely to a gesture of scolding, warning, or disapproval. This creates a sharp contrast between the positive animal usage and the negative human usage.
As a noun, "wag" is quite old-fashioned and is rarely used in modern daily conversation. It describes someone who is a bit of a prankster or a witty person. While not negative, it feels dated and is more likely to be found in 19th-century literature or used ironically today to describe someone who thinks they are being clever.
Avoid using "wag" for general shaking movements (like shaking a head or a hand in greeting); "shake" or "wave" are the correct choices there. "Wag" specifically implies a rhythmic, side-to-side motion.
Meanings
Examples
The golden retriever began to wag its tail the moment I walked through the door.
Look at that puppy wagging with such excitement.
Look at that puppy wagging with such excitement.
She wagged her finger at the children to warn them to be quiet.
The old dog gave a slow wag of its tail in greeting.
He was known as the office wag who could make anyone laugh during a boring meeting.
Our local wag always has a witty comment for every situation.
I wonder if the cat is actually happy or just wagging its tail in annoyance.