Synonyms of bellyache

bellyache 1 of 2

noun

ˈbe-lē-ˌāk 

as in cramps

abdominal pain especially when focused in the digestive organs

eating too many apples will give you a bellyache

Synonyms & Similar Words

• cramps
• stomachache
• collywobbles
• colic
• gripes

bellyache

2 of 2

verb

as in to complain

to express dissatisfaction, pain, or resentment usually tiresomely

tired of the kids bellyaching every time they're asked to mow the lawn or take out the trash

Synonyms & Similar Words

• complain
• scream
• whine
• moan
• mutter
• grumble
• worry
• bitch
• squawk
• murmur
• cry
• growl
• holler
• gripe
• whimper
• kick
• wail
• nag
• squeal
• kvetch
• grouse
• beef
• bleat
• whinge
• repine
• inveigh
• caterwaul
• yammer
• carp
• grouch
• yowl
• grizzle
• crab
• fuss
• croak
• protest
• keen
• grump
• yawp
• kick up a fuss
• maunder
• cavil
• quarrel (with)
• sob
• object (to)
• quibble
• lament
• fret
• stew
• bemoan
• bewail
• blubber
• deplore

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• rejoice
• delight
• endure
• accept
• tolerate
• take
• bear
• crow
• cheer
• applaud
• countenance
• commend

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of bellyache

Noun

The play then folds itself in half, like a man with a bellyache. — Helen Shaw, New Yorker, 2 Oct. 2025

No place to stay Reaching San Antonio, Dieuvena, Banel and Matéo Sebastien slept at the airport, waiting for a flight to Boston, during which time the 4-year-old boy began complaining of a bellyache. — Liam Reilly, CNN, 30 Apr. 2023

Verb

But alas, developers Game Freak have opted to improve the aesthetics just enough to skirt online bellyaching rather than making any attempt to wow fans. — Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 24 Sep. 2025

Whereas Michael Myers paced calmly in a silly jumpsuit, Lewis bellyached in moody black outfits. — Jason Zinoman, New York Times, 29 Feb. 2024