sniff

American  

[snif] / snɪf /

verb (used without object)

1. to draw air through the nose in short, audible inhalations.

2. to clear the nose by so doing; sniffle.

3. to smell by short inhalations.

4. to show disdain, contempt, etc., by or as by sniffing.

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verb (used with object)

1. to perceive by or as by smelling.

   to sniff a scandal.

2. to inhale through the nose.

   to sniff the air.

noun

1. an act of sniffing; a single, short, audible inhalation.

2. the sound made by such an act.

3. a scent or odor perceived.

   a sniff of perfume.

sniff British  

/ snɪf /

verb

1. to inhale through the nose, usually in short rapid audible inspirations, as for the purpose of identifying a scent, for clearing a congested nasal passage, or for taking a drug or intoxicating fumes

2. to perceive or attempt to perceive (a smell) by inhaling through the nose

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noun

1. the act or sound of sniffing

2. a smell perceived by sniffing, esp a faint scent

Other Word Forms

• sniffing noun
• sniffingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of sniff

1300–50; Middle English; back formation from snivel

Example Sentences

“I’m all sweaty from being in the kitchen,” I said, noting how drenched my shirt was, and I sniffed it.

From Literature

He sniffed, wiping his snout with his tail.

From Literature

The Charlton man provides physicality and endeavour and will pop up with the odd goal here and there - his record of 10 in 49 caps is not to be sniffed at.

From BBC

This is the evidence Robinson believes can be England's X-factor at the World Cup, irrespective of those "purists" who may sniff at such an approach.

From BBC

Lolling about the foyer, sniffing from time to time at my legs and hands, were three perfectly huge Doberman pinschers.

From Literature

Related Words

• detect
• inhale
• smell