Meaning & Definition of word "Grunt"

Grunt

/ɡrʌnt/

noun:

  • 1. A low, guttural sound made by a person or animal.
    • Example: The grunt from the pig startled the farmer.
  • 2. A soldier of low rank in the army.
    • Example: The grunts in the platoon followed their commander without question.

verb:

  • 1. To make a low, guttural sound, often indicative of effort or struggle.
    • Example: He grunted as he lifted the heavy box.
  • 2. To work hard but without much enthusiasm or enjoyment.
    • Example: She grunted through the tedious tasks of cleaning the house.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'gruntir' or from a Germanic source.

Common Phrases and Expressions

grunt work:

Menial, hard, or unskilled tasks.

just a grunt:

A common soldier without a leadership position.

grunt and groan:

To make noises of discomfort or effort.

Related Words

guttural:

Relating to or produced in the throat.

gruntle:

To put in a good humor or satisfied state.

grumbling:

To complain or murmur in a low tone.

Slang Meanings of grunt

Meaning: A soldier, especially an infantryman, without rank.

Example Sentence: He's just a grunt on the front lines.

Meaning: A low-level worker or intern in an organization.

Example Sentence: I was just a grunt doing all the paperwork.