French word

gémissement

Pronunciation

IPA/ʒemisəmɑ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine noungroan

Example

Un gémissement s'est échappé de la pièce.

A groan escaped from the room.

Illustration for gémissement (groan)

More examples

Il a poussé un gémissement en se relevant.

He let out a groan as he got back up.

Core concept

A plaintive noise slipping out when someone is in pain, distressed, or very uncomfortable.

Common phrases

  • pousser un gémissement

    let out a groan

  • entendre un gémissement

    hear a groan

Similar words

cri: A sudden loud cry of surprise or a call for attention.
soupir: A brief exhaled sound expressing relief or resignation.
pleur: Tearful crying that reveals sorrow or suffering.

Definition in French

Désigne le bruit plaintif et souvent involontaire produit par quelqu'un qui souffre ou qui est très inconfortable.

Word origin

French created gémissement from gémir by adding -ment, while gémir descends from the Latin verb gemere, meaning to groan or moan.

Usage tips

  • Gémissement usually suggests pain or distress, whereas soupir more often denotes an ordinary sigh or breath of relief.

Related words

  • gémirgroanverb
  • gémissantgroaningadjective

Word lists with this word