Kvetching: meaning, definitions and examples

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kvetching

 

[ ˈkvɛtʃɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

complaining excessively

Kvetching refers to complaining persistently or whining about trivial matters. It often suggests a nagging or grumbling tone, and is commonly used in informal contexts.

Synonyms

complaining, grumbling, nagging, whining

Examples of usage

  • She was kvetching about the long lines at the store.
  • He always starts kvetching as soon as he gets up in the morning.
  • Stop kvetching and find a solution to the problem.
  • The kids were kvetching about having to do their homework.

Translations

Translations of the word "kvetching" in other languages:

🇵🇹 queixar-se

🇮🇳 शिकायत करना

🇩🇪 jammern

🇮🇩 mengeluh

🇺🇦 скаржитися

🇵🇱 marudzić

🇯🇵 不平を言う (ふへいをいう)

🇫🇷 se plaindre

🇪🇸 quejarse

🇹🇷 şikayet etmek

🇰🇷 불평하다

🇸🇦 يشكو

🇨🇿 naříkat

🇸🇰 sťažovať si

🇨🇳 抱怨 (bào yuàn)

🇸🇮 pritoževati se

🇮🇸 kvarta

🇰🇿 наразылық білдіру

🇬🇪 მოწუწვა

🇦🇿 şikayət etmək

🇲🇽 quejarse

Etymology

The term 'kvetch' comes from the Yiddish word 'kvetsn', which means 'to complain' or 'to squeeze.' Yiddish itself is a High German-derived language historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews, and it incorporates elements from Hebrew and Slavic languages. The use of 'kvetch' in English has been prevalent since the mid-20th century, reflecting the influence of Jewish culture in American society. Its casual usage often conveys a sense of humor; however, it can also indicate an irritating habit of excessive complaining. The act of kvetching has been embraced in popular culture, often humorously characterizing certain personality types or cultural stereotypes, thus solidifying its place in the English lexicon.