int. [a lengthened form of hem! an inarticulate sound made in clearing the throat.] An exclamation to attract attention to the speaker, or to give him time to consider what he is to say.
1763. C. Johnstone, Reverie, II. 151. Hem! ahem! In the first place, said he, clearing his voice.
1814. J. Boswell, Justiciary Opera, 65. Gal-lery—si-lence—Ahem!
