Um

Part of speech: interjection

Definitions

1. A sound people make while pausing or hesitating to think of what to say next
2. An interjection used in speech to signal uncertainty or a brief gap while searching for words
3. A filler sound spoken when someone hesitates, is unsure, or needs a moment before continuing

Etymology: The interjection "um" is an imitation of a hesitant vocal sound, the kind of wordless pause people make while searching for what to say next. Its spelling reflects the nasal hum that closes the sound, which is why it is written with an "m" rather than being simply a vowel. Speakers use it to hold the floor in conversation, signalling that they have not finished speaking even though they have paused.

Synonyms: uh, er, erm