# whiny

/ˈhwaɪni/ (US) · /wˈaɪni/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

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

## Definition

behaving in a way that is annoying because you want something or are complaining. You use this to describe someone who sounds like a child when they are upset.

For teachers: characterised by a high-pitched, complaining tone or a petulant, demanding attitude. Often used to describe vocal qualities or emotional states that are perceived as irritating.

## Examples

- He gave a whiny voice when he asked for more candy.
- The manager was tired of the whiny complaints from the staff about the new office layout.
- The protagonist's whiny tone in the early chapters eventually wears thin on the reader, though it serves to establish his initial vulnerability.

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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.