Langimage
English

grumble

|grum-ble|

B2

/ˈɡrʌm.bəl/

quiet complaint

Etymology
Etymology Information

'grumble' originates from Middle French, specifically the word 'grommeler,' where 'grom-' meant 'to mutter' and '-meler' meant 'to mix.'

Historical Evolution

'grommeler' transformed into the English word 'grumble' during the late Middle English period.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to mutter or murmur,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to complain quietly.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a complaint uttered in a low and indistinct tone.

His grumble was barely audible.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to complain or protest about something in a bad-tempered but typically muted way.

She grumbled about the long wait.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39