"groan" This sound is low, rumbling and in the throat. It can imply physical pain or pleasure, disgust, disappointment or boredom. "whine" This sound is high and nasal. It usually implies complaining. "moan" This sound is low with an open throat. It implies physical pain or pleasure. It can also imply complaint. This sound is also often used when describing the sound of ghosts (i.e., tortured souls).