hmm

UK: həm | US: həm

Definition

  1. interj. an utterance expressing hesitation, doubt, or thoughtful pause

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

"Hmm" is an onomatopoeic interjection imitating the sound of a vocalized pause. Unlike structured words with clear morphemes, it emerged organically across languages to represent humming or contemplative hesitation. Its spelling variations (e.g., "hm," "hmmm") reflect its phonetic nature rather than etymological roots.

Examples

  1. "Hmm, I’m not sure if that’s the right answer."

  2. She paused and said, "Hmm, let me think about it."

  3. "Hmm, this coffee tastes different today."

  4. "Hmm, where did I put my keys?"

  5. He responded with a thoughtful, "Hmm," before agreeing.