Humph
/hʌmf/noun
An interjection expressing doubt, annoyance, contempt, or reluctant disagreement.
Did you know?Humph has no securely traceable ancient root; lexicographers generally treat it as an expressive imitation of a nasal grunt, related in spirit to interjections such as “hum” and “hmm.”
Etymological Timeline
18th Century
English
humph
“An expressive interjection signaling doubt, dissatisfaction, or contempt”
18th Century
English
hum
“A murmured or nasal sound used to express hesitation, doubt, or disapproval”
18th–19th Century
English
humph
“A conventional written representation of a skeptical or offended grunt”
19th Century
English
humph
“An interjection used in dialogue to convey disdain or reluctant acceptance”
Modern English
English
humph
“A dismissive vocal reaction, often equivalent to “I’m not impressed””