First Known Use: 1603
Dictionary
ahem
interjection \a throat-clearing sound; often read as ə-ˈhem\
—used in writing to represent a sound that is like a quiet cough that people make especially to attract attention or to express disapproval or embarrassment
Full Definition of AHEM
—used especially to attract attention or to express disapproval or embarrassment
See ahem defined for English-language learners
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Origin of AHEM
imitative
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