Whining Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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whining

[หˆwaษชnษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

complaining

Whining is the act of complaining in a feeble or petulant way. It is characterized by a high-pitched and irritating voice tone, often accompanied by a sense of helplessness or self-pity.

Synonyms

complaining, grumbling, moaning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
whining

Often used when someone is expressing dissatisfaction in a high-pitched or childish tone. It typically has a negative connotation.

  • Stop whining about the homework, you just need to do it.
  • She was whining because she didn't get the toy she wanted.
complaining

Generally used when someone is expressing displeasure or dissatisfaction clearly and in detail. Commonly used in both formal and informal settings.

  • He was complaining about the poor service at the restaurant.
  • They have been complaining about the noise from the construction site.
moaning

Usually involves expressing dissatisfaction or pain with long, low sounds. It can also be used negatively to indicate continual complaints.

  • He was moaning in pain after he hurt his ankle.
  • Everyone is moaning about the new dress code at work.
grumbling

Often refers to expressing dissatisfaction quietly and in a low voice. It can have a negative or mildly irritated tone.

  • She was grumbling about having to work late.
  • The workers were grumbling under their breath about the new policy.

Examples of usage

  • She was constantly whining about her workload.
  • Stop whining and start taking action to solve the problem.
Context #2 | Noun

behavior

Whining refers to the behavior of constantly complaining or making high-pitched, irritating sounds in a childish or annoying manner. It is often associated with a lack of maturity or emotional intelligence.

Synonyms

complaining, grumbling, moaning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
whining

Typically used to describe someone who is persistently making small or petty complaints in a high-pitched, annoying manner. Often used to describe children or someone being immature.

  • Stop whining about your homework and just do it.
  • The toddler was whining for ice cream.
complaining

Generally used when someone is expressing dissatisfaction about a situation or problem. This can be done in a formal or informal setting and does not necessarily carry a negative tone.

  • She was complaining about the long meeting.
  • Customers were complaining about the new policy.
grumbling

Used to describe someone who is expressing dissatisfaction in a low, muttering voice. It often indicates that the person is trying to hide their complaints or is somewhat resigned to the situation.

  • He was grumbling about the cold weather.
  • She grumbled under her breath after losing the game.
moaning

Used when someone is expressing their complaints in a prolonged and irritating manner. It can also imply a sense of helplessness or self-pity.

  • He kept moaning about how unfair his life was.
  • The employees were moaning about the pay cuts.

Examples of usage

  • Her continuous whining about minor issues was starting to annoy everyone.
  • The toddler's whining for a toy in the store caused a scene.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Whining can be a signal of seeking attention or support, as individuals often express frustrations this way.
  • Research suggests that frequent whining can lead to negative social interactions, impacting relationships.

Communication

  • Whining is often described as a less effective way of communicating needs, as it can annoy listeners and obscure the actual issue.
  • It can be related to specific patterns of communication, such as passive aggression, where the person avoids direct confrontation.

Pop Culture

  • In comedy routines, exaggerating a whining voice is a common trope used to portray entitled or spoiled characters.
  • Whining has been a popular theme in movies and cartoons, often highlighting a characterโ€™s immaturity or frustration.

Parenting

  • Parents often encounter whining as a phase in child development, as kids learn to express their emotions.
  • Effective parenting strategies usually involve teaching children to articulate their needs clearly instead of whining.

Origin of 'whining'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'hwฤซnan', which means to make a soft or high sound.
  • It has connections to similar words in other Germanic languages, like the Dutch 'wenen', meaning to weep or lament.

The word 'whining' originated from the Middle English word 'whinen', which meant to complain or lament. Over time, it has evolved to describe the act of complaining or making irritating sounds in a childish manner. The behavior of whining is often associated with a lack of emotional maturity or the inability to effectively communicate one's needs or concerns.


See also: whiner, whiny.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,835, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.