Querulously

Part of speech: adverb

Pronunciation: /ˈkwɛɹ.ʊ.ləs.li/

Definitions

1. In a way that expresses complaints or dissatisfaction in a petulant or whining tone
2. With an attitude of persistent grumbling or fretfulness that shows annoyance or unhappiness
3. Expressing discontent or objection by complaining in a querulous and peevish manner

Etymology: "Querulously" is simply "querulous" with the adverbial ending "-ly" attached. The adjective comes from Latin "querulus," meaning "complaining," from "queri," "to complain," and it is the ending that does the grammatical work here. The "-ly" suffix descends from Old English "-līċe," itself built on a Germanic ending meaning "in the manner of" or "having the form of," so the word is a plain layering of a Latin-based adjective and an old Germanic adverb marker. The root "queri" is the same verb behind words such as "querulent" and the legal term "querent," which is one who brings a complaint. Its own origins are Indo-European, but its path into English runs through the adjective, which is why the whole word carries the sense of someone forever murmuring about grievances.

Synonyms: complainingly, grumblingly

Antonyms: calmly, contentedly