whiner
Definition
Noun: A person who habitually complains in a feeble, fretful, or whining manner; someone given to excessive expressions of discontent, often in an annoying or persistent way.
Usage
The word "whiner" is a noun used to describe a person whose characteristic behavior is to complain frequently and peevishly. It carries a negative connotation, implying that the complaints are often about minor issues and are expressed in a tiresome or childish manner. It is more critical than neutral synonyms like "complainer."
Examples
- The manager had little patience for whiners on his team and expected problems to be presented with proposed solutions.
- Don't be such a whiner; a little rain won't ruin the picnic.
- She was labeled a whiner by her colleagues because she constantly grumbled about the office temperature.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used in a figurative sense to describe a persistent, irritating sound:
- In informal or literary contexts, it can be used for dramatic effect to criticize a group's attitude:
Variants and Related Words
- Whine (verb): To make a long, high-pitched complaining sound or to complain in such a manner.
- The child began to whine about being tired.
- Whining (noun/adj): The act or sound of whining; complaining in a whiny manner.
- His constant whining was unbearable.
- She spoke in a whining voice.
Synonyms
- Complainer: A more neutral term for someone who complains.
- Grouch: A habitually irritable or complaining person.
- Grumbler: Someone who mutters complaints in a low voice.
- Moaner (chiefly British): Someone who complains in a prolonged, mournful way.
- Fault-finder: A person who habitually looks for and points out flaws.
Antonyms
- Stoic: A person who endures pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining.
- Optimist: A person who tends to be hopeful and confident about the future.
- Trooper (informal): A person who perseveres through difficulty without complaining.
Noun
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a person given to excessive complaints and crying and whining
