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

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

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 notes

In plain EnglishA low sound of pain, frustration, or complaint, or the act of making one.

Common pairings

groan in pain groan with frustration the floor groaned

Word forms

groaned past tense, groans plural, groans singular

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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."

Origin: Old English

Synonyms

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moan

Related words

complain moan

Rhymes for groan

loan Joan moan Roan Sloan Samoan Croatoan

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.

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