huff

play

verb \ˈhəf\

Definition of huff

intransitive verb
1a : to emit puffs (as of breath or steam)b : to proceed with labored breathing huffed up to the peak
2a : to make empty threats : blusterb : to react or behave indignantly
transitive verb
1 archaic : to treat with contempt
2 : to make angry
3 : to utter with indignation or scorn
4 : to inhale (noxious fumes) through the mouth for the euphoric effect produced by the inhalant

See huff defined for English-language learners

See huff defined for kids

Examples of huff in a Sentence

“The project is a complete waste of time,” she huffed.
demanding to speak to the branch manager, she huffed about the rudeness of the bank teller

Origin and Etymology of huff

imitative

First Known Use: 1583

huff

noun

Definition of huff

: a usually peevish and transitory spell of anger or resentment quit in a huff

See huff defined for English-language learners

Examples of huff in a Sentence

was in a huff because everyone was running late and the hot breakfast she had prepared was getting cold
gets all in a huff every time anyone makes the slightest criticism

1684

First Known Use of huff

1684

Synonym Discussion of huff

offense, resentment, umbrage, pique, dudgeon, huff mean an emotional response to or an emotional state resulting from a slight or indignity. offense implies hurt displeasure. takes deep offense at racial slurs resentment suggests lasting indignation or ill will. harbored a lifelong resentment of his brother umbrage may suggest hurt pride, resentment, or suspicion of another's motives. took umbrage at the offer of advice pique applies to a transient feeling of wounded vanity. in a pique I foolishly declined the invitation dudgeon suggests an angry fit of indignation. stormed out of the meeting in high dudgeon huff implies a peevish short-lived spell of anger usually at a petty cause. in a huff he slammed the door

HUFF Defined for English Language Learners

huff

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verb

Definition of huff for English Language Learners

: to say (something) in a way that shows you are annoyed or angry

HUFF Defined for Kids

huff

play

verb \ˈhəf\

Definition of huff for Students

huffed

;

huffing

1 : to give off puffs (as of air or steam)
2 : to do or say in a way that shows anger He huffed out of the room.

huff

play

noun

Definition of huff for Students

: a fit of anger or temper We argued and she left in a huff.

Medical Dictionary

huff

play

transitive verb \ˈhəf\

Medical Definition of huff

: to inhale (noxious fumes) through the mouth for the euphoric effect produced by the inhalant; also : to inhale the noxious fumes of (a substance) for their euphoric effect teenagers huffing correction fluid