Kvetch

[amandel]

I was asked about this word, and I was sure there would be a WOTD entry to support my explanations. There wasn't, how come, I never seem to find one...

Never mind, I was only kvetching for fun, not really complaining.

[brogine]

According to Leo Rosten’s The Joys of Yiddish - and HRH, the OED - the word derives from the German ‘quetschen’, ‘squeeze’ or ‘press’.

Although Rosten cites several meanings, I think it’s safe to say that these days its near-exclusive use is yours, ‘complain’.

Practitioners of the ancient art are (male) ‘kvetcher’ and (female) ‘kvetcherkeh’.

[Slava]

Can't someone also simply be a kvetch?

[brogine]

I’ve heard that usage and you’re perfectly right. Should have noted that. Supported by both sources mentioned. Thanks.