Pronunciation: /həˈrʌmf/

Definitions of harrumph

noun a sound or utterance expressing disapproval, indignation, or scorn

Example Sentences

A1 She let out a harrumph when she heard the bad news.

A2 The old man's harrumph could be heard across the room.

B1 His harrumph of disapproval was loud and clear.

B2 The teacher's harrumph indicated her frustration with the students' behavior.

C1 The politician's harrumph was a signal that he disagreed with the proposed policy.

C2 Her harrumph was a clear indication of her disdain for the entire situation.

verb to clear the throat noisily in a pompous way

Example Sentences

A1 She harrumphed loudly when her brother ate the last cookie.

A2 The old man harrumphed in disapproval at the noisy children.

B1 The boss harrumphed before giving his final decision on the project.

B2 The professor harrumphed and adjusted his glasses before beginning the lecture.

C1 The judge harrumphed at the defendant's excuse, clearly not impressed.

C2 The politician harrumphed during the debate, trying to assert authority.

Examples of harrumph in a Sentence

formal The professor let out a harrumph before beginning his lecture.

informal When I told him I was running late, he just harrumphed and walked away.

slang She gave a dramatic harrumph when she found out she didn't get the job.

figurative The old man's harrumph was a clear sign of his disapproval.

Grammatical Forms of harrumph

past tense

harrumphed

plural

harrumphs

comparative

more harrumphing

superlative

most harrumphing

present tense

harrumph

future tense

will harrumph

perfect tense

have harrumphed

continuous tense

is harrumphing

singular

harrumph

positive degree

harrumph

infinitive

to harrumph

gerund

harrumphing

participle

harrumphed

Origin and Evolution of harrumph

First Known Use: 1700 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The word 'harrumph' is believed to have originated as an onomatopoeic expression, imitating the sound of a gruff or disapproving noise made by clearing one's throat or expressing disdain.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to convey disapproval or annoyance, 'harrumph' has evolved to also signify a dismissive or sarcastic response in modern usage.