filler word; filler phrase
A word or phrase used to fill pauses in speech, such as えーと, あの, まあ, or なんか.
Japanese filler words include 'eeto' and 'ano'.
Using too many filler words in a speech gives the audience an impression of lack of confidence.
Standard kanji-kana mixed spelling.
Full kanji spelling; less common but still seen.
Compound of つなぎ (connector, from verb つなぐ 'to connect') and 言葉 (word, language).