complain meaning and definition

COMPLAIN verb

Definition of complain (verb)

1. express complaints, discontent, displeasure, or unhappiness
   • "My mother complains all day"; "She has a lot to kick about"
   • synonyms: kick, kvetch, plain, quetch, sound off
   • antonym: cheer
2. make a formal accusation; bring a formal charge
   • "The plaintiff's lawyer complained that he defendant had physically abused his client"