ahem
Ahem (intj) means a sound made to clear the throat, often to get someone's attention or hint at something without saying it directly. Example: “Ahem, I believe it's my turn to speak.”
How to Use Ahem
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA polite little throat-clear used to grab attention or drop a hint, often with a touch of humor or sarcasm.
Word Forms
ahemmed past tense, ahems singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____, I believe it's my turn to speak.
Etymology
An imitation of the sound of clearing one's throat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “ahem” mean?
The word “ahem” means a sound made to clear the throat, often to get someone's attention or hint at something without saying it directly. In plain terms, a polite little throat-clear used to grab attention or drop a hint, often with a touch of humor or sarcasm.
How do you pronounce “ahem”?
“Ahem” is pronounced uh-HEHM (/əˈhɛm/ in IPA).
How do you use “ahem” in a sentence?
Here is “ahem” used in a sentence: “Ahem, I believe it's my turn to speak.”
What part of speech is “ahem”?
“Ahem” is an intj.
Is “ahem” a common word?
“Ahem” is an uncommon word in modern English.