Ekhm

Ekhm is an interjection commonly used in spoken language to attract attention, express a mild cough, or signal hesitation. It is often employed when someone wants to interrupt a conversation, make their presence known, or indicate that they are about to speak. The sound itself is a soft, breathy expulsion of air, mimicking a subtle cough.

The usage of ekhm can vary depending on context and region. In some instances, it might be a polite way to get someone's attention without being overly disruptive. For example, a student might say "ekhm" to signal to a teacher that they have a question. In other situations, it can be used to express a slight discomfort or uncertainty before voicing an opinion or making a request.

The interjection is generally considered informal and is more prevalent in casual conversation than in formal settings. Its brevity and understated nature make it a versatile tool for subtle communication. While not a word with a specific dictionary definition in the traditional sense, ekhm serves a clear communicative function within spoken language, facilitating social interactions and signaling intent.