Whiny means annoyingly complaining, especially in a high-pitched voice.
- Whiney means the same as whiny, but it’s an uncommon alternative spelling.
- Whinny is the low or gentle neighing of a horse.
Words that differ by only a letter or two are sometimes difficult to tell apart. However, you can master whiny, whiney, and whinny with ease. Find out how!
Whiny definition
Have you ever heard someone whine? Whiny describes someone who annoyingly complains or frets about something, especially in a high-pitched voice. Here are some sentences to help you understand how to use whiny. The alternate spelling whiney derives from adding a -y ending to the verb whine, but this spelling is not even half as popular as whiny. As with all rare spellings, writers sometimes encounter criticism from readers who think that it’s a misspelling.
Whinny definition
To whinny means to neigh softly. The noise is characteristic of horses. Notice how the verb is used in these two sentences.