Grumble: meaning, definitions and examples

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grumble

[ˈɡrʌmbəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

complain

To complain quietly about something in a bad-tempered way. It is often used when someone is not satisfied with something but does not express their dissatisfaction openly.

Synonyms

complain, gripe, mutter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
grumble	Grumble is often used when someone talks in a low voice, either to themselves or to a small group of people, expressing dissatisfaction or annoyance. It can be more private and less direct. He grumbled about the long wait at the doctor's office
complain	Complain is more general and official. It usually implies a direct expression of unhappiness or discontent to someone who might be able to address the issue. Often used in formal or public contexts. She complained to the manager about the terrible service at the restaurant
mutter	Mutter describes speaking in a low, almost inaudible voice, usually in discontent or irritation. It is typically used when complaining to oneself or under one’s breath. She muttered something about the unfairness of the situation as she walked away
gripe	Gripe is often used informally to describe persistent complaint about minor issues. It can carry a slightly negative tone and suggest that the complaints may be somewhat annoying. He always gripes about having to do house chores

Examples of usage

She grumbled about the food in the restaurant.
He grumbled about the weather all day.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sound

A low, rumbling sound, such as the one produced by a hungry stomach or thunder in the distance.

Synonyms

growl, murmur, rumble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
grumble	Grumble is used when someone is complaining quietly or in a low voice about something minor or trivial. He grumbled about the cold weather She always grumbles when she has to do the dishes
rumble	Rumble is used to describe a low, continuous sound that often comes from a distance, such as thunder or machinery. It can also refer to the low sound of an empty stomach. The thunder rumbled in the distance His stomach rumbled during the meeting
growl	Growl is often used to describe a deep, guttural sound made by animals, typically showing aggression or displeasure. It can also be used for humans when they speak in a low, threatening tone. The dog growled at the stranger 'Leave me alone,' he growled
murmur	Murmur refers to speaking softly or indistinctly, often in a group setting or when someone is trying not to be overheard. It typically has a neutral or gentle connotation. They murmured their responses during the meeting The crowd murmured in agreement

Examples of usage

The grumble of the thunder could be heard in the distance.
His stomach let out a loud grumble.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'grumble' comes from the Middle English 'grumblen', which means to murmur or complain.
Related to the Old Norse word 'grumbla', it reflects the idea of making low, rumbling noises.
The term has been in use since the 15th century, evolving to depict a softer form of complaining.

Psychology

Grumbling can be a way for people to express dissatisfaction without confronting the issue directly.
Research shows that expressing complaints, even softly, can relieve stress but may also prolong negativity if not addressed.
It often reflects underlying emotions like frustration or disappointment, hinting at deeper feelings.

Pop Culture

In various cartoons, characters often grumble when faced with chores or responsibilities, making them relatable.
Famous literary characters like Ebenezer Scrooge exemplify grumbling, representing the archetype of the grumpy old man.
Songs and movies occasionally use the theme of grumbling to highlight humor or friction in relationships.

Historical Usage

During the 18th century, 'grumble' was used to describe soldiers complaining about their conditions.
In the 19th century, it became common in British English to refer to murmuring in dissatisfaction, especially in public spaces.
The usage of the term has shifted from more vocal complaints to quieter forms of expressing dissatisfaction.

Literature

Grumbling appears frequently in children's literature, capturing characters who resist change or adventure.
In Shakespeare's plays, characters sometimes grumble, showcasing their discontent with the status quo, which drives the plot.
Contemporary authors often use grumbling as a tool to develop characters' personalities and relatability.

Translations

Translations of the word "grumble" in other languages:

🇵🇹 resmungar

🇮🇳 बड़बड़ाना

🇩🇪 murren

🇮🇩 menggerutu

🇺🇦 бурчати

🇵🇱 mruczeć

🇯🇵 ぶつぶつ言う (butsubutsu iu)

🇫🇷 grommeler

🇪🇸 refunfuñar

🇹🇷 homurdanmak

🇰🇷 투덜거리다 (tudeolgeorida)

🇸🇦 تذمر (tadhamar)

🇨🇿 bručet

🇸🇰 brbotať

🇨🇳 抱怨 (bàoyuàn)

🇸🇮 godrnjati

🇮🇸 muldra

🇰🇿 кекету

🇬🇪 ბუზღუნი (buzghuni)

🇦🇿 mızıldanmaq

🇲🇽 refunfuñar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,795, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22792 winery
22793 urination
22794 sardonic
22795 grumble
22796 glut
22797 roomy
22798 wagging
...