humph

American  

[huhmf] / hʌmf /

spelling pronunciation umph

interjection

1. (used to indicate disbelief, contempt, etc.)

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verb (used with or without object)

1. to utter by or as if by expressing “humph.”

humph British  

/ hʌmf /

interjection

1. an exclamation of annoyance, dissatisfaction, scepticism, etc

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Etymology

Origin of humph

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

The hump theory was the first to be discarded as so much humph.

From Time Magazine Archive

She makes it sound like she is so cut up to be giving them this information, and it’s all just humph out of her head.

From "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein

This sorta made sense, but Genie didn’t respond with anything other than a humph.

From "As Brave As You" by Jason Reynolds

The lawyer only looked strangely at her—muttered his "humph," and turned away.

From The Last of the Foresters Or, Humors on the Border; A story of the Old Virginia Frontier by Cooke, John Esten

Just to think of her leading the female prayer-meeting and being president of the Missionary society, humph!

From Divers Women by Pansy