oomph

noun

ˈu̇m(p)f 

1

: personal charm or magnetism : glamour

2

: sex appeal

3

: punch, vitality

Synonyms of oomph

• vigor
• energy
• pep
• juice
• dynamism

Examples of oomph in a Sentence

The plot of the story lacks oomph.

The truck doesn't have the oomph to haul the boat.

Recent Examples on the Web

Native’s Powder Dry Shampoo has become a popular pick at Target, where shoppers are turning to the $13 bottle to stretch the time between washes while giving their roots a little more oomph. — Jill Layton, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2026

This one features a creamy, Parmesan-white wine sauce with juicy steak bites and a garlic bread-esque panko topping, as well, to give it a little more oomph and a little crunch. — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 8 Sep. 2026

For extra savory oomph, stir in fish sauce by the 1 teaspoon. — Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2026

For a formal occasion, like a wedding or graduation, dress it up with pearl pins, or scatter gold cuffs throughout the braids for some extra oomph. — Ariel Baker, InStyle, 11 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

imitative of a sound made under exertion

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined at sense 1