First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
groan
verb \ˈgrōn\
: to make a deep sound because of pain or some strong emotion (such as grief or disappointment)
: to say (something that expresses annoyance or unhappiness)
: to complain about something
Full Definition of GROAN
intransitive verb
1
: to utter a deep moan indicative of pain, grief, or annoyance
2
: to make a harsh sound (as of creaking) under sudden or prolonged strain
transitive verb
: to utter or express with groaning
— groan noun
See groan defined for English-language learners
See groan defined for kids
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Origin of GROAN
Middle English gronen, from Old English grānian; akin to Old High German grīnan to growl
GROANING Defined for Kids
1groan
verb \ˈgrōn\
groanedgroan·ing
Definition of GROAN for Kids
1
: to make or say with a moan <“Not a test,” she groaned.>
2
: to creak under a strain <The stairs groaned under his weight.>
2groan
noun
Definition of GROAN for Kids
: a low moaning sound
Learn More About GROAN
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