uh-huh

"Uh-huh" is an example of vocalized sound symbolism, where the word mimics natural sounds or vocal gestures. It likely emerged as a spontaneous oral expression of affirmation in English, similar to "mm-hmm." Its reduplicative structure (repeating "uh" with a slight variation) reinforces its informal, conversational tone. Unlike compound words, it doesn't derive from morphemes but rather imitates the rhythm and pitch of nodding or verbal agreement.