Definition of complaint

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< complainant

complaisance >

com·plaint    (km-plnt) KEY 

NOUN:

1. An expression of pain, dissatisfaction, or resentment.
2. A cause or reason for complaining; a grievance.
3. 1. A bodily disorder or disease; a malady or ailment.
   2. The symptom or distress about which a patient seeks medical assistance.
4. Law
   1. The presentation by the plaintiff in a civil action, setting forth the claim on which relief is sought.
   2. A formal charge, made under oath, of the commission of a crime or other such offense.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English compleinte, from Old French complainte, from feminine past participle of complaindre, to complain ; see complain