oomph

[ oomf ]

noun

, Informal.

1. energy; vitality; enthusiasm.
2. sex appeal.

oomph

/ ʊmf /

noun

1. enthusiasm, vigour, or energy
2. sex appeal

Word History and Origins

Origin of oomph¹

An Americanism dating back to 1935–40; imitative of the sound made during exertion, as in lifting a heavy object

Word History and Origins

Origin of oomph¹

C20: perhaps imitative of the bellow of a mating bull

Example Sentences

I DO press the tea bag to extract more "oomph" from it and this is a big no-no for some who believe it will make your tea bitter.

From Salon

The minstrel-inflected “Dr. Jazz” number that closes the first act is given a little too much Vegas oomph.

From Los Angeles Times

Then early in the second set, Nadal lacked oomph on a backhand volley, allowing Hurkacz to reply with a forehand up the line that clipped the net and landed in for another break.

From Seattle Times

When some people are still paying off their student loans as they approach retirement, that premise loses some of its oomph.

From Los Angeles Times

Combs gave the rhythm section a little more arena-rock oomph and added a slight country twang to his phrasing, but that’s really it.

From New York Times

Related Words

• fortitude
• pep
• potency
• stamina
• vigor
• vitality
• zest
• zip