sniggle

[ snig-uhl ]

verb (used without object)

, snig·gled, snig·gling.

1. to fish for eels by thrusting a baited hook into their lurking places.

verb (used with object)

, snig·gled, snig·gling.

1. to catch by sniggling.

sniggle

/ ˈsnɪɡəl /

verb

1. intr to fish for eels by dangling or thrusting a baited hook into cavities
2. tr to catch (eels) by sniggling

noun

1. the baited hook used for sniggling eels

Derived Forms

• ˈsniggler, noun

Other Words From

• snig·gler [snig, -ler], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sniggle¹

1645–55; snig eel ( late Middle English snigge ) + -le

Word History and Origins

Origin of sniggle¹

C17: from C15 snig young eel

Example Sentences

And in one way and another this impression was brought home to the young rector more than once during these days, so that his cheek flamed as he passed the window of the reading-room, or caught the half-restrained sniggle in which Gregg ventured to indulge when in company.

From Project Gutenberg

Sniggle, snig′l, v.i. to fish for eels by thrusting the bait into their hiding-places.—v.t. to catch by this means: to ensnare.—n.

From Project Gutenberg

He heard Hydeman's sniggle of laughter behind him.

From Project Gutenberg

You can't always sniggle successfully.

From Project Gutenberg

Molly and Douglas did not like church; their fair heads were close together, and occasionally a faint sniggle would cause nurse to look round with stern reproval.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• chortle
• chuckle
• giggle
• laugh
• smirk
• sneer