Grunts were the first level of warrior in the service of orc armies during the First War. Trained for close combat, these soldiers make excellent fodder for wading through human forces. Use of the axe and shield is their speciality, and they are hearty fighters with a taste for blood.Template:Cite
Grunts are the first and last line of the horde's defense. These powerful fighters arm themselves with mighty battle-axes and display all of the savagery and cunning of their race. In past generations, grunts were characterized by their depravity and brutality. But now, under the visionary leadership of Thrall, they more closely resemble their savage, yet noble warrior ancestors.Template:Cite
In Warcraft I and II
In the Warcraft I and II, the grunt was the main orcish fighter and equal to footmen.
In Warcraft III
In Warcraft III, grunts are stronger and have slightly less armor than footmen but cost more food and resources.
In World of Warcraft
In PvP
Grunt was an old Honor System title available to Horde characters; being a Grunt allowed characters to purchase a Team insignia trinket.
NPCs and Mobs
Grunts are guards in orcish horde cities and towns such as Orgrimmar and Razor Hill, but also in-horde orcish settlements throughout Azeroth and Outland.
Grunts are used as the pawn in the Karazhan chess event .