1895, of uncertain origin, possibly from
grutching "complaint, grumbling" (see
grudge).
Grouch (n.) "ill-tempered person" is a 1900 back-formation.
Grouch bag "purse for carrying hidden money" (1908) is the source of the nickname of U.S. comedian Julius "Groucho" Marx, who supposedly carried his money in one to poker games.
[groo-shee] 
ma