complains; complained; complaining
1
: to say or write that you are unhappy, sick, uncomfortable, etc., or that you do not like something
He works hard but he never complains.
If you're unhappy with the service, you should complain to the manager.
—often + about or ofCustomers are sure to complain about the price increase.
In her letters, she complains of loneliness. [=she says that she is lonely]
She complained of a sore throat. [=she said she had a sore throat]
"How are you feeling?" "I can't complain." [=I am not unhappy or ill; I am fine]
2
: to say (something that expresses annoyance or unhappiness)
The students complained that the test was too hard.
"These shoes are too tight," he complained.
Cite this Entry
“Complain.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/complain. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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