# groaning

/ˈɡɹoʊnɪŋ/ (US) · /ɡɹˈəʊnɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/groaning
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

to make a low, heavy sound when you are in pain or very tired. It is an old word that people might use in stories or old songs.

For teachers: to utter a low, heavy sound as a result of pain, fatigue, or distress. Archaic in modern usage; typically appears in historical or literary contexts.

## Examples

- The old bridge groaning under the weight of the heavy truck.
- The old man groaning as he struggled to lift the heavy wooden beam into place.
- The ancient stone walls began to groaning as the heavy rains continued to fall, signaling the imminent collapse of the crumbling structure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.