Synonyms for

Moaning

Verb / ˈməʊnɪŋ / Another word for moaning — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The sound someone makes when they are unhappy or in pain.

Synonyms & similar words

groan moan complaining whining groaning wailing lamenting bemoaning sighing weeping crying yowling mewling sobbing keening howling ululating yammering grumbling muttering griping carping

Synonyms by register

Formal

lamenting groaning complaining whimpering

Informal

whining grumbling bellyaching kvetching

Literary

keening wailing lamentation

Antonyms

rejoicing celebrating cheering laughing singing exulting

Common collocations

  • moaning in pain
  • moaning softly
  • moaning with pleasure
  • moaning sound
  • moaning about work
  • moaning in despair
  • moaning low

Word family

noun moan
verb moan
adjective moaning

Usage note

While 'moaning' can refer to expressing pain or grief, it is also often used informally to describe complaining or expressing dissatisfaction, sometimes humorously.

Example sentences

  1. He woke up to the sound of his dog moaning.
  2. She moaned when she saw her test score.
  3. The patient was moaning in agony.
  4. My stomach is moaning for food.
  5. The wind moaned through the trees.

Quotes

  • The world is full of people who are going to tell you that you can't. What you've got to do is turn around and say, 'Watch me.' - Jack White
  • The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. - Steve Jobs
  • I think it's very healthy to spend time alone. You need to know how to be alone and not be defined by another person. - Oscar Wilde

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