complainer

Everyday

1. A person who complains a lot, often about small things. tree →
2. A person who makes an official complaint. tree →

In the lessons

In stories and everyday life it describes someone who always grumbles about food, weather or rules — usually said as criticism. In adult life, a shop or council may deal with «the complainer» politely. It tells the reader someone grumbles or has made a complaint. Similar: «moaner», «whinger» (UK, Australia), «grump».

Examples

• My cousin is a real complainer; nothing is ever good enough. tree →
• Don't be a complainer — try the new food. tree →
• The complainer wrote to the council about the noise. tree →
• Even the biggest complainers loved the school trip. tree →
• A complainer can spoil the fun for everyone. tree →
• The shop manager listened to the complainer patiently. tree →

Note

Countable: a complainer, complainers. Verb: complain; noun: complaint (the thing said). Informal similar words: moaner, whinger (UK, Australia, NZ), whiner (US). Complaining fairly about a real problem is fine and can fix things.