Grumbling

/ˈɡrʌmblɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A low, muted complaint or murmur.

There was a lot of grumbling among the staff about the new schedule changes.

A series of complaints or dissatisfaction expressed in a quiet or subdued manner.

The grumbling from the audience indicated they were not pleased with the performance.

verb

To complain or express dissatisfaction in a low, muttering voice.

He was grumbling about the long wait at the doctor's office.

To make a low rumbling sound, often in reference to the stomach.

After skipping breakfast, her stomach started grumbling loudly during the meeting.

Old English grumbian, meaning 'to murmur or complain'.

grumbling stomach

A stomach making low rumbling noises, often due to hunger.

grumbling old man

A man who frequently complains or is irritable.

grumble

To complain or express dissatisfaction.

murmur

A soft, indistinct sound made by a person or group of people speaking quietly.

Whining or complaining about something trivial.

Stop grumbling about the weather; it won't change anything.

Expressing discontent in a casual or humorous way.

He always grumbles when it's time to do chores, but we know he secretly loves helping out.