Meaning & Definition of word "Sniff"

Sniff

/snɪf/

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.

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.

●Middle English, from Old Norse 'snifa'.

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.

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.

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!