Cryptic crossword clue
Complained after German found out

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word GRUMBLED

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
G
R
U
M
B
L
E
D

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Complained" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case complained = grumbled.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does GRUMBLED mean?

GRUMBLED verb
  1. To make a low, growling or rumbling noise, like a hungry stomach or certain animals.
  2. To complain; to murmur or mutter with discontent; to make ill-natured complaints in a low voice and a surly manner.
  3. To utter in a grumbling fashion.

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