Grump Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grump

[É¡rÊŒmp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

feeling

a person who is always in a bad mood and easily annoyed

Synonyms

crank, curmudgeon, grouch, misanthrope.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grump

Used to describe someone who is often in a bad mood or easily annoyed, usually temporarily.

  • He's such a grump in the morning before he has his coffee.
  • Don't mind her; she's just being a grump today.
grouch

Refers to someone who is always complaining or in a bad mood. This term is often used light-heartedly.

  • What's wrong with you today? You're such a grouch.
  • Even the grouch next door smiled when he saw the children playing.
curmudgeon

Describes an old person, usually a man, who is bad-tempered, stubborn, and resistant to change, often used affectionately.

  • My grandfather is a bit of a curmudgeon, but we all love him.
  • The newspaper columnist is known as a lovable curmudgeon.
crank

Refers to someone who is irritable and complains a lot, often about trivial things. It can carry a slightly humorous tone.

  • The old man down the street is a real crank about his lawn.
  • She turns into a crank whenever she has to deal with customer service.
misanthrope

Used to describe someone who dislikes or distrusts people in general. This term has a more serious and negative connotation.

  • The reclusive author was often described as a misanthrope.
  • He refuses to go to parties, calling himself a misanthrope who can't stand company.

Examples of usage

  • Stop being such a grump and try to enjoy the party.
  • She's such a grump in the mornings before her coffee.
Context #2 | Verb

mood

to complain or protest about something in a bad-tempered way

Synonyms

complain, grumble, moan, whine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grump

Typically used to describe someone who is habitually irritable and often in a bad mood.

  • He's such a grump in the mornings before his coffee.
  • Don't be a grump, join us for some fun!
complain

Used when someone is expressing dissatisfaction or annoyance about something.

  • She always complains about the weather.
  • He complained to the manager about the poor service.
whine

Typically used to describe a high-pitched or prolonged expression of dissatisfaction; often considered to be more annoying or childish.

  • The child started to whine when he didn't get his way.
  • Stop whining and do your homework.
moan

Used when someone is expressing prolonged or repeated complaints, often in a way that sounds like a long, low sound.

  • She's been moaning about her workload all day.
  • He moaned when he discovered there was no hot water.
grumble

Often used when someone is muttering or speaking in a low tone to express dissatisfaction, usually in a more subdued manner than outright complaining.

  • The workers grumbled about the new policy.
  • He grumbled quietly to himself as he did the chores.

Examples of usage

  • He grumped about the weather all day.
  • Stop grumping and find a solution.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that people who frequently express their grumpiness may actually be grappling with deeper emotional issues such as stress or anxiety.
  • A person labeled as 'grump' may serve as a social mirror, reflecting the unhappiness of those around them.
  • Chronic grumpiness can affect interpersonal relationships, leading to social isolation if left unaddressed.

Pop Culture

  • Characters like Oscar the Grouch from 'Sesame Street' embody the grumpy archetype, teaching children about emotions and acceptance.
  • In contemporary memes, 'grumpy cat' became an internet sensation, showcasing how humor can flourish around grumpiness.
  • Many popular films and shows include grumpy characters whose transformations often bring comedic relief or deeper life lessons.

Literature

  • In classic literature, grumpy characters often find redemption, such as Ebenezer Scrooge in 'A Christmas Carol,' illustrating the potential for change.
  • Children's stories frequently feature grumpy figures who initially resist joy but learn to embrace happiness through friendship.
  • The portrayal of grumps in literature often serves as a representation of adult worries and societal criticisms.

Sociology

  • The presence of grumpy people in social settings can lead to either diffuse or amplify group tensions, affecting overall group dynamics.
  • Sociological studies suggest that grumpy behavior can be contagious in group settings, influencing the mood of others.
  • Cultural expectations shape how grumpiness is perceived, with some societies viewing it as humorous, while others see it as a serious concern.

Origin of 'grump'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from 18th-century England, possibly derived from the word 'grumble,' reflecting discontent or dissatisfaction.
  • It may also relate to the Low German word 'grumpen,' which means to sulk or to scowl.
  • Used in various cultures, it often describes a person who expresses their annoyance loudly or visibly.

The word 'grump' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the Dutch word 'grumpen' meaning to grunt or grunt-like noise. Over time, it evolved to describe a person who is habitually in a bad mood or easily annoyed. The verb form of 'grump' emerged later to describe the act of complaining or protesting in a bad-tempered manner.


See also: grumpily, grumpy.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,052, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.