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Definition of ahem

ahem

/əˈhɛm/
a · hem
Plural:ahems
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ahem Lexical Profile

ahem Game Scores & Validity

• interjection

1

Used to represent the sound of clearing the throat, typically to attract attention, express mild disapproval or hesitation, or signal embarrassment.

Example

"Ahem, if everyone could please take their seats, we are ready to begin the presentation."

Synonyms
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• noun

1

An utterance of the sound 'ahem' or a deliberate clearing of the throat to gain attention or express skepticism.

Example

"With a polite ahem, the assistant reminded the director that the next meeting was about to start."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for ahem

• Nearby Words

aha
ahaggar
ahead
ahem
ahi
ahmedabad
ahold

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-18th century as an onomatopoeic representation of the sound made when clearing one's throat, expanding upon the older interjection 'hem'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ahem. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ahem
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