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DictionarygroanSound of pain or displeasure
noun / verb

groan

GROHN/ɡrəʊn/

A low sound expressing pain, effort, or displeasure, or to make such a sound.

The older woman groans as she gently holds her aching knee.

An older woman seated on a simple chair groans from an aching knee, holding it gently with a pained expression and her mouth slightly open on a low exhalation.
Etymology
groanOld Englishto groan, lament

Granian already described a deep, low breath expressing grief or pain. The verb also came to mean “complain,” extending the expression of physical distress to dissatisfaction and disapproval.

In context

Appian Media5:37
the people of Israel groan because of their slavery and cried out for help.
Lessons From the Land: the Exodus

More examples

  • A groan escapes him as he lifts the heavy box.
  • The announcement of extra homework draws groans from the class.
  • I groaned when I saw the parking ticket.

Forms

groan · groans · groaned · groaning

Similar words

moan
Often suggests a longer sound of pain or sadness.
grunt
Suggests a shorter, rougher sound, often made during effort.