What is hem and haw?

Hem and haw are two idiomatic expressions that are often used together to refer to someone who is indecisive or uncertain about what to do or say in a given situation. The expression “hem and haw” typically means to hesitate or equivocate, or to speak in a vague and evasive manner.

Hemming refers to the act of pausing and making a noise that sounds like “hem” before speaking, while hawing refers to making a noise that sounds like “haw” before speaking. These sounds are often used as ways to fill gaps in a conversation or to buy time while thinking about what to say.

The expressions are believed to have originated in the UK in the 16th century, where they were used to describe the sounds made by a stammering speaker. Today, these expressions are used more broadly to describe people who are unsure or hesitant in their actions or words.