noun

moan

mohn

noun

A low, drawn-out sound expressing pain, sadness, or pleasure.

"A low moan came from the injured man on the ground."

verb

To make such a sound.

"She moaned softly as the doctor examined her ankle."

To complain, especially persistently or about small things.

"He's always moaning about the weather."

"Stop moaning and just get on with the work."

How to Use Moan

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA low sound of pain or pleasure, or, informally, to grumble and complain.

When to use it

The "complain" sense is informal, common in British English.

Common pairings

moan about something a low moan moan and groan

Word Forms

more moan comparative, moaned past tense, moans plural, moan plural, moaned plural, moans singular, moan singular, moaned singular, moanest singular, moanedst singular, moaneth singular, most moan superlative

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A low _____ came from the injured man on the ground.

Etymology

From Middle English "mone," from Old English roots meaning "complaint" or "lamentation."

Rhymes for moan

loan Joan Roan groan Sloan Samoan Croatoan

See all rhymes for moan →