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Translate files Sniff
/snɪf/
Meaning & Definition
noun
the act of inhaling quickly through the nose
With a quick sniff, she identified the scent of cinnamon in the kitchen.
a quick inhalation through the nose, often used to express annoyance or disbelief
He gave a disdainful sniff at the suggestion.
verb
to inhale quickly through the nose to detect a smell or to express disapproval
She sniffed the flowers to enjoy their fragrance.
to take in air through the nose in an audible manner, often indicating a cold or distress
He sniffed repeatedly because he had a cold.
to investigate or search for something, often to gather information
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
To take drugs by inhaling them.
He got caught trying to sniff glue.
To be overly curious about someone else's business.
Stop sniffing around my personal life!