Sniff
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /snɪf/ · Part of speech verb
Quick meaning: Sniff is a verb meaning (ambitransitive) To make a short, audible inhalation, through the nose, as when smelling something.
Meaning
(ambitransitive) To make a short, audible inhalation, through the nose, as when smelling something.
More Meanings
- (transitive) To say (something) while sniffing, such as in case of illness or unhappiness, or in contempt.
- (transitive) To perceive vaguely.
- (intransitive) To pry; to investigate in an interfering manner.
- To be dismissive or contemptuous of something; used with at.
- (computing) To intercept and analyse packets of data being transmitted over a network.
- (countable) An instance of sniffing.
- (slang, chiefly UK) To inhale drugs (usually cocaine) through the nose, usually in powder form.
Example Sentences
packet sniffer
This opportunity is not to be sniffed at.
I sniffed the meat to see whether it had gone off.
The dog sniffed around the park, searching for a nice scent.
Word Forms
- sniffs
- sniffing
- sniffed
Synonyms for sniff
Depending on context, synonyms include snort, whiff, snuff, sniffle.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include sniffle, snuff, whiff, snort, smell, track.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.