Definition of complaint
1
: expression of grief, pain, or dissatisfaction
She did her chores without complaint.
2a
: something that is the cause or subject of protest or outcry
Inefficiency was the main complaint against the local government.
b
: a bodily ailment or disease
The patient's complaint was frequent headaches.
3
: a formal allegation against a party
The complaint alleges sexual harassment.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for complaint
The first known use of complaint was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century