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complain definition

com·plain (kəm plān)

intransitive verb

  1. to claim or express pain, displeasure, etc.
  2. to find fault; declare annoyance
  3. to make an accusation; bring a formal charge

Etymology: ME compleinen < OFr complaindre < VL *complangere, orig., to beat the breast < L com-, intens. + plangere, to strike: see plaint

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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O Love, I complain55 years ago

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