Moan: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when expressing discomfort, slight pain, or mild dissatisfaction in a murmuring, low voice.

• He moaned softly as he got up from the couch after sitting for hours.
• She moaned about her workload, wishing she had more free time.

Typically used to express a deeper or more intense feeling of pain, frustration, or exhaustion.

• He groaned in pain after accidentally hitting his knee against the table.
• The students groaned when they heard there would be a surprise test.

Describes a soft, low, and often repetitive noise made when someone is scared, in minor pain, or seeking sympathy.

• The puppy whimpered in the corner of the room, frightened by the loud storm.
• He whimpered quietly as he tried to explain what happened.

Refers to a prolonged, high-pitched cry, usually due to extreme sorrow, grief, or distress.

• The child wailed when her favorite toy broke.
• She wailed in grief at the news of the loss of a loved one.

This is usually used to express discomfort, pain, or pleasure. It can also be used to complain about something in a non-specific way.

• He moaned in pain after twisting his ankle.
• She moaned softly, enjoying the moment.

This is generally used to indicate deep discomfort, frustration, or annoyance, often as a physical sound coming from deep within the body.

• He groaned loudly after hearing the bad news.
• The old chair groaned under his weight.

This is typically used to describe high-pitched, complaining sounds that can seem annoying. It often has a childish or petulant connotation.

• The child whined about not getting dessert.
• He always whines when he has to do chores.

This is used when someone is complaining in a low, often discontented voice. It has a quietly negative connotation.

• She grumbled about the long wait at the doctor's office.
• They grumbled quietly among themselves about the new company policy.