complain

com-plain · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To express dissatisfaction or annoyance about something.

  2. 2.

    To formally report a problem or grievance.

  3. 3.

    To state that one is suffering from pain or illness.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    can't complain — things are reasonably good
  • •
    complain about — to express dissatisfaction with
  • •
    complain of — to report symptoms of illness

Related words

Antonyms: accept, commend, praise
See also: complaint, grumble, protest
Synonyms: gripe, grumble, protest, whine

Etymology

From Old French "complaindre," from Latin "complangere" meaning to bewail, from "com-" (intensive) and "plangere" (to lament, beat the breast).