grouch

noun

ˈgrau̇ch 

1

a

: a fit of bad temper

b

: grudge, complaint

2

: a habitually irritable or complaining person : grumbler

grouch intransitive verb

Synonyms

• bear
• bellyacher
• complainer
• crab
• crank
• croaker
• crosspatch
• curmudgeon
• fusser
• griper
• grouser
• growler
• grumbler
• grump
• murmurer
• mutterer
• sourpuss
• whiner

Examples of grouch in a Sentence

an uncle who is a real grouch when he's sick

having been proven wrong, he had a grouch on for hours afterwards

Recent Examples on the Web

Warm feelings fueled by the wonder and kindness of the season, inspired by the transformative and timeless experiences of Ebenezer Scrooge who changed from a selfish, penny-pinching grouch, into a generous, happy and altruistic person. —Eric C. Shuster, Austin American-Statesman, 6 Dec. 2024

The Grinch, a furious grouch living on the outskirts of Whoville, decides to ruin the holiday by posing as Santa Claus and stealing everyone’s presents, decorations, and feasts. —EW.com, 30 Nov. 2024

Origin: Latin Meaning: Free, Frenchman Alternative Spellings and Variations: Francis, Frankie Oscar Sure, the most famous Oscar is either a statue or a grouch, but the name itself is a strong choice that will grow with your child. —Kara Nesvig, Parents, 23 Sep. 2024

Though the kitty is getting long in the tooth, Oscar is no grouch; his name is an acronym for OutSide Cat at Rear. —John Tuohy, The Indianapolis Star, 2 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of grutch grudge; from Middle English grucche, grugge, from grucchen — more at grudge

First Known Use

circa 1895, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

grouch

noun

ˈgrau̇ch 

1

: a sudden outburst of bad temper

2

: an irritable or complaining person

grouch verb

grouchily

ˈgrau̇-chə-lē

adverb

grouchiness

-chē-nəs

noun

grouchy

-chē

adjective