Definition of "ahem" in English

interjection

1. (onomatopoeia) The sound of a quiet cough or of clearing one's throat.

2. Demanding attention.

   • Ahem! Could we please get started?

3. Expresses disapproval or annoyance.

   • Ahem! In case you didn't notice, I did my share of the work, too.

4. Indicates the speaker does not wish to be perceived as rude, often intimating an impolite meaning to a third party that the speaker is not addressing.

verb

1. To cough or clear one's throat so as to draw attention.