1. the red berry-like fruit of the hawthorn tree

1. used to express hesitation or uncertainty in speech
Usage: often paired with ‘hem’

Examples

• The birds fed on the bright red haws in autumn.
• Hawthorn trees produce small haws that wildlife enjoy.
• He began to hem and haw when asked about his plans.
• Stop your hemming and hawing and give me a straight answer.
• She collected haws to make jelly.
• The politician continued to haw when pressed for details.