ahem
- 1A sound made by clearing the throat, used to draw others' attention or signal a wish to speak.
Ahem, I believe it's my turn to speak now that the introductions are over.
Ahem. Over here, please; the line for tickets actually starts on this side.
- 2Represents the sound made by someone who coughs quietly or clears their throat.
Ahem, excuse me, my voice is a little rough after that long talk.
He gave a quiet ahem and reached for the glass of water beside him.
- 3A throat-clearing sound used to express disapproval or annoyance with someone or something.
Ahem. That's the third time you've interrupted me in as many minutes.
When he propped his muddy boots on the table, his aunt managed a pointed ahem.
- 4A throat-clearing sound used to signal subtle sarcasm, a polite untruth, or a euphemism the speaker would rather not state outright.
The new manager is, ahem, very generous with other people's time.
They've been "just friends," ahem, for the better part of a decade.
- 5A throat-clearing sound used to call attention to a pun, especially one with a rude or off-color double meaning.
He swore the baker really knew how to handle his buns, ahem.
The captain promised the cruise would be a real maiden voyage, ahem, for everyone aboard.
- 6To cough or clear the throat deliberately in order to draw attention.
Whenever the room got too loud, the chair would ahem until it settled.
She ahemed politely to remind them that she was still waiting for an answer.
Similarcough
Showing meanings only.
Practice
Can you tell the meanings of ahem apart? Answer 4 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.
Origin
Onomatopoeic: the word imitates the sound it represents.