adj

whiny

WEYE-nee

Whiny (adj) means Prone to complaining in an annoying way, or having a complaining, nasal tone. Example: “His whiny tone made even reasonable requests sound like complaints.”

adj

Prone to complaining in an annoying way, or having a complaining, nasal tone.

"His whiny tone made even reasonable requests sound like complaints."

"The toddler got whiny as nap time approached."

How to use whiny

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSounding like, or behaving like, someone who complains constantly.

When to use it

Informal; used casually rather than in formal writing.

Word forms

whinier comparative, whiniest superlative

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His _____ tone made even reasonable requests sound like complaints.

Rhymes for whiny

tiny miny shiny rainy spiny Pliny briny brainy grainy mutiny jiminy destiny

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Frequently asked questions

What does “whiny” mean?

The word “whiny” means prone to complaining in an annoying way, or having a complaining, nasal tone. In plain terms, sounding like, or behaving like, someone who complains constantly.

How do you pronounce “whiny”?

“Whiny” is pronounced WEYE-nee (/ˈwaɪni/ in IPA).

How do you use “whiny” in a sentence?

Here is “whiny” used in a sentence: “His whiny tone made even reasonable requests sound like complaints.”

What part of speech is “whiny”?

“Whiny” is an adjective.