groan

groan · noun, verb

imported

Definitions

noun, verb

  1. 1.

    (noun) A deep, inarticulate sound expressing pain, despair, or disapproval.

  2. 2.

    (verb) To make a deep sound expressing pain, despair, or disapproval.

  3. 3.

    (verb) To creak or make a low sound under strain or weight.

Forms

plural: groans

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    groan under the weight of — To be heavily burdened by something
  • •
    groaning board — A table laden with abundant food

Related words

Antonyms: cheer, laugh
See also: grunt, moan, sigh
Synonyms: grunt, moan, sigh

Etymology

From Old English granian ("to groan, lament"), from Proto-Germanic grainjan. Related to German greinen ("to whine, cry").