noun
Uncommon
groan
GROHN
Groan (noun) means a low, drawn-out sound made when someone is in pain, upset, or annoyed. Example: “He let out a groan as he stood up with his bad back.”
noun
1
A low, drawn-out sound made when someone is in pain, upset, or annoyed.
"He let out a groan as he stood up with his bad back."
"A groan spread through the office when the meeting was extended."
verb
1
To make this kind of low, unhappy sound.
"She groaned when she saw the size of the pile of homework."
"The old floorboards groaned under his weight."
How to use groan
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA low sound of pain, frustration, or complaint, or the act of making one.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
groan in pain
groan with frustration
the floor groaned
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Word forms
- Plural
- groans
- Third person singular
- groans
- Past tense
- groaned
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He let out a _____ as he stood up with his bad back.
Etymology
From Old English granian, "to groan or lament," part of a group of Germanic words meaning "to whine or howl."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for groan
See all rhymes for groan →Frequently asked questions
What does “groan” mean?
The word “groan” means a low, drawn-out sound made when someone is in pain, upset, or annoyed. In plain terms, a low sound of pain, frustration, or complaint, or the act of making one.
How do you pronounce “groan”?
“Groan” is pronounced GROHN (/ˈɡɹoʊ̯n/ in IPA).
How do you use “groan” in a sentence?
Here is “groan” used in a sentence: “He let out a groan as he stood up with his bad back.”
What part of speech is “groan”?
Depending on how it is used, “groan” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “groan” come from?
The word “groan” comes from Old English. From Old English granian, "to groan or lament," part of a group of Germanic words meaning "to whine or howl.".
Is “groan” a common word?
“Groan” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “groan” have?
“Groan” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a low, drawn-out sound made when someone is in pain, upset, or annoyed.
