complain

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to make a formal accusation

   I complained about my colleague's offensive remarks about my weight.

2. 2
   verb

   to express discontent, displeasure, or unhappiness

   My co-worker complains all day.

3. 3
   verb

   To express feelings of pain, dissatisfaction, or resentment.

   Joe was always complaining about the noise made by his neighbours.

4. 4
   verb

   To make a formal accusation or bring a formal charge.

   They've complained about me to the police again.

5. 5
   verb

   To creak or squeak, as a timber or wheel.

   the complaining bed-springs

Etymology

From Middle English complaynen, from Old French complaindre, from Medieval Latin complangere (“to bewail, complain”), from Latin com- (“together”) + plangere (“to strike, beat, as the breast in extreme grief, bewail”); see plain, plaint.