snorkel

[ snawr-kuhl ]

noun

1. alsocalledcomma British, snort. a device permitting a submarine to remain submerged for prolonged periods, consisting of tubes extended above the surface of the water to take in air for the diesel engine and for general ventilation and to discharge exhaust gases and foul air.
2. a hard rubber or plastic tube through which a swimmer can breathe while moving face down at or just below the surface of the water.

verb (used without object)

1. to engage in snorkeling.

snorkel

/ ˈsnɔːkəl /

noun

1. a device allowing a swimmer to breathe while face down on the surface of the water, consisting of a bent tube fitting into the mouth and projecting above the surface
2. (on a submarine) a retractable vertical device containing air-intake and exhaust pipes for the engines and general ventilation: its use permits extended periods of submergence at periscope depth
3. military a similar device on a tank, enabling it to cross shallow water obstacles
4. a type of parka or anorak with a hood that projects beyond the face

verb

1. intr to swim with a snorkel

Other Words From

• snorkel·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of snorkel¹

First recorded in 1940–45, snorkel is from the German word Schnorchel air intake

Word History and Origins

Origin of snorkel¹

C20: from German Schnorchel; related to German schnarchen to snore

Example Sentences

Each summer in July, Greenberg helps organize an annual snorkel survey in which dozens of volunteers swim along the river and count the number of spring-run chinook salmon, as well as summer steelhead.

From Los Angeles Times

She called it the “snorkel pool,” because she had previously snorkeled in clear water here and recorded video of the fish.

From Los Angeles Times

One morning in mid-August, on a tributary creek downstream from the dams, a group of men wearing wetsuits, masks and snorkels swam in clear pools, scanning the water for small fish.

From Los Angeles Times

On the Discovery Cove website, it is described as an "all-inclusive day resort" which offers opportunities to swim with dolphins and snorkel among tropical fish.

From BBC

Over the past decade, he has been photographed inaugurating countless projects, meeting supporters, snorkelling, and even meditating in a cave after the 2019 election campaign.

From BBC