grumble
verb (used without object)
to murmur or mutter in discontent; complain sullenly.
grumbled
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past participleof grumble.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof grumble.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
grumbleverb (used without object)to murmur or mutter in discontent; complain sullenly.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Two decades ago, customers grumbled about U.S. airlines charging for checked bags, which was the start of all the unbundling that followed.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 13, 2026
I grumbled and complained while Delilah instantly fell in love.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 28, 2026
"This is not a life," one of the relocated mothers grumbled.
From Barron's ● Jun. 17, 2026
Hockney grumbled constantly about the iron grip of draconian forces in America: in particular the new lack of tolerance for public smoking.
From BBC ● Jun. 12, 2026
“Your mother made me leave,” Babulya grumbled, “so I wouldn’t offend him. I got some herbs in the meantime. Come here and taste this.”
From Anya and the Dragon by Sofiya Pasternack
