grumble
verb (used without object)
to murmur or mutter in discontent; complain sullenly.
was grumbling
-
past progressiveof grumble.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
There was grumbling on social media that the lack of a physical disc would eliminate any second-hand market for the title.
From Barron's ● Jul. 1, 2026
There was grumbling, on the other hand, about the Chicago Bears.
From Washington Post ● May 2, 2023
There was grumbling that general manager Ron Francis was too timid in his team-building, but this season has been a vindication of his methods.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 7, 2023
There was grumbling in the ranks, and not just at our table.
From New York Times ● Apr. 27, 2022
Even Gimli, as stout as any dwarf could be, was grumbling as he trudged.
From "The Fellowship of the Ring" by J.R.R. Tolkien
