Meaning & Definition of word "Grumble"

Grumble

/ˈɡrʌmbəl/

noun:

  • 1. a low, muffled complaint.
    • Example: There was a general grumble among the workers about the new policies.
  • 2. a rumbling sound, particularly made by the stomach.
    • Example: The grumble from his stomach was loud enough to be heard across the table.

verb:

  • 1. to complain or express dissatisfaction in a low voice or in a muted manner.
    • Example: He tends to grumble about the weather whenever it rains.
  • 2. to make a low, rumbling sound.
    • Example: The stomach began to grumble after hours without food.

Etymology

Middle English; from Old Norse 'grumba', meaning to rumble

Common Phrases and Expressions

grumble about:

to complain or express dissatisfaction regarding a specific topic

grumble to oneself:

to complain quietly or silently without intending others to hear

grumbling stomach:

a stomach that makes low rumbling sounds, often due to hunger

Related Words

grumble-some:

inclined to grumble or complain

grumbled:

past tense of grumble

Slang Meanings of grumble

Meaning: to bitch

Example Sentence: Stop grumbling and just do your job!

Meaning: to vent

Example Sentence: I just need to grumble for a bit about my day.