huff

¹huff

verb \ˈhəf\

Definition of HUFF

intransitive verb

1

a : to emit puffs (as of breath or steam) b : to proceed with labored breathing <huffed up to the peak>

2

a : to make empty threats : bluster b : 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

Examples of HUFF

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

Origin of HUFF

imitative

First Known Use: 1583

Related to HUFF

Synonyms: bluster, fulminate, rant, rave, spout

Related Words: sound off, speak out, speak up; blare, blurt out, bolt; bloviate, blow, declaim, harangue, mouth (off), orate, pontificate; carry on, rage, storm, take on

Near Antonyms: grunt, murmur, mutter, slur; breathe, whisper

[+]more[-]hide

Rhymes with HUFF

bluff, buff, chough, chuff, cuff, duff, fluff, gruff, guff, luff, muff, puff, rough, ruff, scruff, scuff, slough, snuff, sough, stuff, tough, tuff