whimper
word
Definition
To make low, weak crying or complaining sounds, often because of pain, fear, or unhappiness.
Usage & Nuances
More gentle and softer than 'cry' or 'wail'. Used for animals (like puppies) and people, especially children. Common in stories and when describing someone who's upset but not loudly crying. Collocates with 'soft', 'quiet', 'little'. Not slang, but informal.
Spanish: gemir - lloriquearPortuguese (BR): choramingar - gemerPortuguese (PT): choramingar - gemerChinese (Simplified): 呜咽 - 抽泣Chinese (Traditional): 嗚咽 - 抽泣Hindi: सिसकनाArabic: ينتحب - يئن
Example Sentences
The puppy began to whimper when it was left alone.
basic
She could hear her baby whimper in the other room.
basic
The injured cat tried to whimper softly.
basic
Don't whimper—tell me what's wrong so I can help.
natural
He didn't cry, just whimpered a little after falling down.
natural
The movie was so sad that some people started to whimper quietly in the theater.
natural