groan

n. A low, moaning sound; usually, a deep, mournful sound uttered in pain or great distress; sometimes, an expression of strong disapprobation; as, the remark was received with groans. [ 1913 Webster ]

Such groans of roaring wind and rain. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

The wretched animal heaved forth such groans. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. i. [ imp. & p. p. Groaned p. pr. & vb. n. Groaning. ] [ OE. gronen, granen, granien, AS. grānian, fr. the root of grennian to grin. √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. [ 1913 Webster ]

For we . . . do groan, being burdened. 2 Cor. v. 4. [ 1913 Webster ]

He heard the groaning of the oak. Sir W. Scott. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To strive after earnestly, as with groans. [ 1913 Webster ]

Nothing but holy, pure, and clear,
Or that which groaneth to be so. Herbert. [ 1913 Webster ]