huff
huff Lexical Profile
huff Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A fit of petty annoyance, resentment, or bad temper, often expressed by leaving abruptly.
"After losing the argument, he stormed out of the room in a huff."
A heavy, audible puff or exhalation of breath, expressing exhaustion or exasperation.
"She let out an exasperated huff and set down the heavy boxes."
• verb
To blow out air or breathe heavily and audibly, as from physical exertion or annoyance.
"The runners huffed and puffed as they climbed the steep hill."
To utter or say something in an annoyed, offended, or indignant manner.
"He huffed that nobody ever listened to his suggestions during meetings."
North American To inhale the fumes of a household chemical or solvent for its intoxicating effects (informal).
"The health curriculum warns students about the severe neurological dangers of huffing."
• Rhymes for huff
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the late 16th century, the word is of imitative origin, mimicking the sound of blowing out a heavy breath or puff of air.