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complain
complain definition
com·plain (kəm plān′)
intransitive verb
- to claim or express pain, displeasure, etc.
- to find fault; declare annoyance
- 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:
- complainer com·plain′er noun
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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