Humph: meaning, definitions and examples
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humph
[ hÊŒmf ]
expression of doubt
'Humph' is an interjection often used to express skepticism, doubt, or displeasure. It can convey a sense of disbelief or frustration without the need for further elaboration. The sound itself is typically made by forcing air out through closed lips, creating a gruff sound. This expression is often used informally in conversations to indicate someone's displeasure or to show that they are unimpressed with what has just been said.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Humph, I doubt that's true.
- Humph! That’s not what I expected.
- She just humph-ed at his suggestion.
Etymology
The word 'humph' originated in the early 19th century, emerging as a phonetic representation of a sound made when expressing disdain or disbelief. It is thought to be an onomatopoeic term, mimicking the sound produced by a person when they exhale sharply through their nose or lips in response to something irritating or unimpressive. The term likely derives from the earlier expression 'harumph', which has similar connotations of skepticism or annoyance. Throughout the years, 'humph' has remained a staple in informal dialogues, often appearing in literature to convey a character's dissatisfaction or contemptuous attitude. Its usage can vary slightly depending on regional dialects, but it still holds the same fundamental meaning of skepticism or mild derision.