Word
grumble
To complain about something in a low, unhappy voice.
Meanings
To complain about something in a bad-tempered but usually quiet way.
A complaint or expression of discontent, often made in a low voice.
A low, rumbling sound, such as from an empty stomach or distant thunder.
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Definition
When you grumble, you express dissatisfaction or unhappiness about something in a quiet, often murmuring tone. It usually implies a mild, persistent complaint rather than an outburst of anger. People often grumble when they are annoyed but don't want to confront the issue directly or loudly.
Examples
- The children started to grumble about being bored on the long car journey.
- He often grumbles about the lack of good coffee in the office.
- I heard a grumble from the kitchen, so I knew dinner wasn't ready yet.
- My stomach began to grumble loudly before lunch.
- Despite her constant grumbles, she always gets the work done efficiently.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "grumble" with "growl," which implies a more aggressive, animal-like sound or tone of voice.
More verbs
- analyze To examine something carefully in order to understand it or explain it.
- scrutinize To scrutinize something is to examine it very carefully and in detail.
- affect To affect something is to influence it or cause it to change.
- allude To allude means to mention or suggest something indirectly without saying it clearly.
- elude To elude someone or something is to avoid being caught, understood, or remembered.