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Groaning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜ซ
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groaning

[หˆษกrษ™สŠnษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

sound

To make a deep inarticulate sound in response to pain or despair.

Synonyms

moan, wail, whine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
groaning

Best used to describe a low, deep sound of pain, discomfort, or effort. This word can also describe an expression of frustration or annoyance.

  • He was groaning in pain after he hurt his leg
  • The old floorboards were groaning under the weight of the heavy furniture
moan

Typically used to describe a long, low sound of pain, pleasure, or sorrow. It can also be used negatively to suggest someone is complaining persistently.

  • She let out a moan of pleasure as she bit into the delicious cake
  • The patient moaned softly in the hospital bed
  • Stop moaning about your chores and just do them
whine

Used to describe a high-pitched, complaining sound, often made in annoyance or dissatisfaction. This word usually has a negative connotation.

  • The dog began to whine because it wanted to go outside
  • He was always whining about how hard his life was
wail

Best used to describe a high-pitched cry of grief, sadness, or pain. It is often associated with mourning or extreme distress.

  • The child began to wail when she couldn't find her mother
  • She wailed in grief when she heard the bad news

Examples of usage

  • She groaned with the effort of standing up.
  • I could hear him groaning in agony.
Context #2 | Verb

complain

To complain or grumble about something.

Synonyms

complain, grumble, whine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
groaning

Typically used when describing a deep, long sound made out of pain, disappointment or tiredness. Often associated with physical discomfort or strong emotional response.

  • He was groaning in pain as he tried to stand up.
  • The old wooden floor was groaning under the weight.
complain

Used when expressing dissatisfaction or annoyance about something. Commonly used in both formal and informal settings.

  • She complained to the manager about the poor service.
  • The kids complained that they were bored.
grumble

Implies a low, muttered form of complaining, often ongoing and not very loud. Usually carries a slightly negative connotation.

  • He grumbled about having to work late again.
  • The old man grumbled as he shuffled down the street.
whine

Often involves a high-pitched or prolonged, irritating sound. Used to describe annoying, childish, or persistent complaining.

  • The dog whined to be let outside.
  • He's always whining about somethingโ€”it's really annoying.

Examples of usage

  • She's always groaning about her workload.
  • He groaned about having to go to the dentist.
Context #3 | Noun

sound

A deep inarticulate sound made in response to pain or despair.

Synonyms

moan, wail, whine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
groaning

Expresses a deep, guttural sound typically made when someone is in pain, discomfort, or frustration.

  • He was groaning in pain after hurting his leg.
  • The old man was groaning as he tried to get out of the chair.
moan

A soft, prolonged sound usually associated with expressing pleasure or discomfort.

  • She let out a moan of satisfaction after taking a bite of the dessert.
  • He could hear the patient moan in the hospital bed.
whine

Describes a high-pitched, complaining sound often made by children or someone who is irritated. It can carry a negative connotation.

  • The child began to whine about not getting any candy.
  • She whined all day about her busy workload.
wail

A loud, high-pitched cry indicating grief, pain, or sadness.

  • The mother wailed in sorrow when she heard the news.
  • The siren wailed through the quiet night.

Examples of usage

  • The groaning of the wounded soldiers filled the battlefield.
  • The creaking and groaning of the old house kept her awake at night.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Groaning can be a non-verbal cue that indicates someone is feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
  • Studies show that people may groan as a way to seek attention or empathy from others.

Literature

  • In literature, groaning often symbolizes inner turmoil or anguish, commonly used by authors to convey charactersโ€™ struggles.
  • Shakespeare used groans in his plays to enhance emotional scenes, allowing audiences to feel empathy for the characters.

Pop Culture

  • Groaning is often associated with humor in films and television, used for comic relief when a character experiences a minor mishap.
  • It serves as a popular sound effect in video games, often indicating something frustrating or challenging that a player faces.

Science

  • Understanding groaning sounds in nature can help scientists study animal behaviors; some creatures groan as part of their mating rituals.
  • In mechanics, 'groaning' refers to sounds created by structures under stress, which can indicate a need for maintenance or repair.

Origin of 'groaning'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'gronan', which means to murmur or make a deep sound.
  • It has been used in English since around the 14th century to express feelings like pain or complaint.

The word 'groaning' originated from the Middle English word 'grลnen', which can be traced back to the Old English word 'grฤnian'. The use of 'groaning' to describe the sound made in response to pain or despair has been documented in various literary works throughout history, highlighting its universal recognition and emotional significance.

See also: groaner.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,073, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.