Groaning: meaning, definitions and examples

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groaning

[ˈɡrəʊnɪŋ ]

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?

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?

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 something—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?

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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 characters’ 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.

Translations

Translations of the word "groaning" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gemido

🇮🇳 कराहना

🇩🇪 Stöhnen

🇮🇩 merintih

🇺🇦 стогін

🇵🇱 jęczenie

🇯🇵 うめき声

🇫🇷 gémissement

🇪🇸 gemido

🇹🇷 inleme

🇰🇷 신음

🇸🇦 أنين

🇨🇿 sténání

🇸🇰 stonanie

🇨🇳 呻吟

🇸🇮 stokanje

🇮🇸 stuna

🇰🇿 ыңырлау

🇬🇪 კვნესა

🇦🇿 inilti

🇲🇽 gemido

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.

...
17070 chattering
17071 robustness
17072 botanist
17073 groaning
17074 precautionary
17075 discernment
17076 kite
...