grumble Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a loud low dull continuous noise
rumble; rumbling; grumbling.
- they heard the rumbling of thunder
noun a complaint uttered in a low and indistinct tone
murmuring; grumbling; muttering; mutter; murmur.
verb show one's unhappiness or critical attitude
grouch; scold.
- He scolded about anything that he thought was wrong
- We grumbled about the increased work load
verb make complaining remarks or noises under one's breath
gnarl; mutter; murmur; croak.
- she grumbles when she feels overworked
verb to utter or emit low dull rumbling sounds
rumble; growl.
- he grumbled a rude response
- Stones grumbled down the cliff
verb make a low noise
rumble.
- rumbling thunder

Cf. LG. grummeln, grumman, D. grommelen, grommen, and F. grommeler, of German origin; cf. W. grwm, murmur, grumble, surly. Cf. Grum, Grim.

imperfect & past participle Grunbled ; present participle & verbal noun Grumbling

To murmur or mutter with discontent; to make ill-natured complaints in a low voice and a surly manner.
L'Avare, not using half his store, Still grumbles that he has no more. Prior.
To growl; to snarl in deep tones; as, a lion grumbling over his prey.
To rumble; to make a low, harsh, and heavy sound; to mutter; as, the distant thunder grumbles.

The noise of one that grumbles.
A grumbling, discontented disposition.
A bad case of grumble. Mrs. H. H. Jacksn.