Meaning & use

Harumph

verb·Everyday

Last updated

To clear one's throat loudly or make a grumbling sound to express irritation, disapproval, or impatience.

See it in a sentence

The old professor harumphed at the suggestion that his theory was outdated.

She harumphed and walked off when no one agreed with her plan.

A note on using this word

Harumph, also spelled harrumph, is an onomatopoeic word imitating the sound of a disapproving throat-clear, often associated with pompous or fussy characters.

Words with a similar meaning

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Another way to use it

2. noun

A grumbling, disapproving sound made in the throat.

He answered with nothing more than a harumph.

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