grunt

UK: ɡrʌnt | US: ɡrʌnt

Definition

  1. n. a low, guttural sound made by an animal or a person

  2. vi. to make a low, guttural sound

  3. vt. to utter or express with a grunt

Structure
grunt <to make a low sound>
Etymology

The word "grunt" originates from Old English grunnettan, an onomatopoeic term imitating the sound of a pig or a person exerting effort. It belongs to a category of words that mimic natural sounds and has remained structurally unchanged in modern English. Due to its onomatopoeic nature, it is not split into smaller morphemes.

Examples

  1. The pig gave a loud grunt when it saw food.

  2. He grunted in disapproval without looking up.

  3. Soldiers often grunt under the weight of heavy gear.

  4. She grunted a reply, too tired to speak properly.

  5. The old door grunted as it swung open.