Synonyms for

Whine

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

Definition

To complain or express dissatisfaction in a high-pitched, irritating tone.

Synonyms & similar words

whimper squeak screak yawp grizzle screech creak skreak yammer snivel complain grumble moan whinge gripe carp protest bemoan lament bewail murmur whimper sob cry snivel fuss nag bellyache kvetch beef

Synonyms by register

Formal

lament moan groan complain

Informal

whinge moan bellyache kvetch grumble

Literary

keening wail plaint

Antonyms

rejoice celebrate cheer exult gloat be pleased be happy

Common collocations

  • whine about something
  • whine and complain
  • whine like a baby
  • whine incessantly
  • whine in protest
  • whine for attention
  • a whining sound

Word family

noun whine
verb whine
adjective whiny

Usage note

Often used to describe the sound of an animal or a child, or to describe someone complaining in an annoying, high-pitched tone. Can also refer to a high-pitched sound made by machinery.

Example sentences

  1. I don't like it when you whine about going to bed early.
  2. My little brother always whines when he doesn't get to play with my toys.
  3. The dog would whine whenever its owner left the room.
  4. Stop whining and just do your homework.
  5. She would whine about the smallest things and it was very annoying.

Quotes

  • "The difference between a helping hand and an outstretched palm is a twist of the wrist." - Laurence Leamer
  • "The only thing worse than a loser is someone who won't admit he played badly." - Chic Anderson
  • "Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear." - Mark Twain

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