Groan/ɡrəʊn/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Shows Discomfort Used when someone is expressing physical discomfort or minor suffering. He groaned as he climbed the steep hill. Pro Tip 2/3Expressing Annoyance Indicates irritation about situations or minor inconveniences. They all groaned when informed about the overtime work. Pro Tip 3/3Not Always Loud A groan doesn't have to be loud; it can be a quiet sound of frustration. Under his breath, he groaned at the new assignment.