Oomph
/ʊmf/noun
Energy, force, vitality, or appealing personal magnetism.
Did you know?Oomph first appeared as an expressive interjection or sound effect, and its later sense of sexual appeal was popularized in American slang during the 1930s.
Etymological Timeline
Early 20th Century
English
umph
“An expressive grunt or interjection representing exertion, impact, or effort.”
1920s
American English
oomph
“A respelling or elaboration of umph, used to suggest force, vigor, or punch.”
1930s
American English
oomph
“Personal magnetism or sexual attractiveness, especially in popular culture and advertising.”
Mid-20th Century
English
oomph
“Energy, vitality, or persuasive force in a person, performance, or idea.”
Modern English
English
oomph
“A vivid quality of power, impact, enthusiasm, or appeal.”