MHMM

What Does MHMM Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

MHMM means "Yes," but can also mean "Really."

More Detail...

MHMM (pronounced as "Um-hermm" or "Um-humm") is an interjection commonly used in English to express agreement (i.e., to say "Yes"). However, depending on the emphasis placed on the syllables, it may also be used to question something that has just been said (as in "Really?"). Context is crucial to understanding the intended meaning. When used to mean "Yes," MHMM can express emphatic agreement, but it can also indicate a lack of interest or enthusiasm. (See examples below.) In this context, MHMM is also often typed as MHM. In this short clip from the TV Show Family Guy, various uses of MHMM are demonstrated perfectly.

Family Guy - Mmhmm

Image for MHMM

When I write MHMM, I mean this:

MHMM often expresses a lack of interest. It can also mean "Really?"

Summary of Key Points

First Definition for MHMM

"Yes" is the most common definitions for MHMM in texting.

MHMM
Definition:	Yes
Type:	Slang Word (Jargon)
Guessability:	2: Quite easy to guess
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Second Definition for MHMM

"Really?" is another common definitions for MHMM.

MHMM
Definition:	Really?
Type:	Slang Word (Jargon)
Guessability:	2: Quite easy to guess
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Examples of MHMM in Sentences

Here are examples of MHMM in conversations:

• Polly: Do you want to come to the party on Friday?
• Peter: MHMM. I sure do! I wouldn't miss it for the world.

(Here, MHMM means "Yes" and expresses enthusiastic agreement.)

• Polly: So then, I asked him about the party.
• Patti: MHMM.
• Polly: And he said he wouldn't miss it for the world.
• Patti: MHMM.

(Here, MHMM means "Yes" and indicates a lack of interest.)

• Paul: Polly has invited Peter to the party.
• Peter: MHMM?! Phil's not going to be very happy.

(Here, MHMM means "Really?")

An Academic Look at MHMM

MHMM is a slang word. Slang refers to words, phrases and uses of language that are regarded as very informal and which are often restricted to a special context or a particular group of users.

What Did We Say before Texting and Social Media?

The use of MHMM to mean "Yes" or "Really?" long pre-dates the digital era.

Example of MHMM Used in a Text

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