Meaning & Definition of word "Sniff"
to
Sniff
/snɪf/
noun:
- 1. the act of inhaling quickly through the nose
- Example: With a quick sniff, she identified the scent of cinnamon in the kitchen.
- 2. a quick inhalation through the nose, often used to express annoyance or disbelief
- Example: He gave a disdainful sniff at the suggestion.
verb:
- 1. to inhale quickly through the nose to detect a smell or to express disapproval
- Example: She sniffed the flowers to enjoy their fragrance.
- 2. to take in air through the nose in an audible manner, often indicating a cold or distress
- Example: He sniffed repeatedly because he had a cold.
- 3. to investigate or search for something, often to gather information
- Example: The detective sniffed around for clues at the crime scene.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old Norse 'snifa'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
sniff around:
To search for something, often secretly.
sniff out:
To discover something through investigation.
sniffle:
To breathe noisily through the nose due to a cold or sadness.
Related Words
scent:
A distinctive smell, especially one that is pleasant.
odor:
A smell, especially a strong or unpleasant one.
smell:
The faculty or power of perceiving odors.
Slang Meanings of sniff
Meaning: To take drugs by inhaling them.
Example Sentence: He got caught trying to sniff glue.
Meaning: To be overly curious about someone else's business.
Example Sentence: Stop sniffing around my personal life!