from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
groan \groan\ (gr[=o]n), v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Groaned}
(gr[=o]nd); p. pr. & vb. n. {Groaning}.] [OE. gronen, granen,
granien, AS. gr[=a]nian, fr. the root of grennian to grin.
[root]35. See {2d Grin}, and cf. {Grunt}.]
1. To give forth a low, moaning sound in breathing; to utter
a groan, as in pain, in sorrow, or in derision; to moan.
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For we . . . do groan, being burdened. --2 Cor. v.
4.
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He heard the groaning of the oak. --Sir W.
Scott.
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2. To strive after earnestly, as with groans.
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Nothing but holy, pure, and clear,
Or that which groaneth to be so. --Herbert.
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