Definition

Tending to complain or express dissatisfaction in a whiny or annoying manner.

Example

The querulous child kept asking for more candy, even after being told no.

Conversation

Have you noticed how querulous Sarah has been lately?

Yeah, it feels like she complains about everything!

I wonder if something is bothering her more than she lets on.

Maybe we should check in on her and see if she needs to talk.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Querulous → It is formed from "queri" (from Latin, meaning to complain) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of). The word "querulous" describes someone who is full of complaints or prone to whining.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is always 'complaining' ('queri') and is 'full of' ('-ous') those complaints. This helps you remember that querulous means someone who is habitually complaining.

Visually Confused Words