harrumph

verb har·rumph \hə-ˈrəm(p)f\

: to say (something) in a disapproving or complaining way

Full Definition of HARRUMPH

intransitive verb

: to clear the throat in a pompous way

: to comment disapprovingly

transitive verb

: to utter (a comment) disapprovingly

— harrumph noun

See harrumph defined for English-language learners

imitative

First Known Use: 1942

Next Word in the Dictionary: harryPrevious Word in the Dictionary: harrsAll Words Near: harrumph

What made you want to look up harrumph? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears