Attested in the 1530s, as grows , a plural used collectively.
The origin of the noun is unknown; the following derivations have been suggested:
From Old French grue (modern French grue) or Medieval Latin gruta, both from Latin grūs, ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *gerh₂-.
Borrowed from Celtic or a different Medieval Latin word.
imitative of the bird’s call.
The verb is derived from the noun.
The origin of the verb is uncertain; it is possibly borrowed from Norman groucier, from Old French groucier, grousser (whence grutch and grouch). The further etymology is unknown, but it may be derived from Frankish *grōtijan or of onomatopoeic origin.
The noun is derived from the verb.
Modern English dictionary
Explore and search massive catalog of over 900,000 word meanings.
Word of the Day
Get a curated memorable word every day.
Challenge yourself
Level up your vocabulary by setting personal goals.