Definition of the word huff

The word "huff" originally referred to the act of breathing heavily through the nose as a way to express annoyance, disapproval, or disgust. This usage can be traced back to the late 16th century when the word "huffen" was used in this sense. Over time, the phrase "to huff and puff" became a popular idiom, associated with the blowing of wind by the three little pigs' wolf in the fairy tale "Three Little Pigs." This has further contributed to the modern understanding of "huff" as a verb, meaning to breathe heavily or exasperatedly. In some regional dialects, the word "huff" has also been used to describe a short journey, particularly by horse-drawn carriages or buggies, possibly due to the puffing and huffing of the horses' efforts.