sniff
3 synonyms and 0 antonyms for sniff, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To inhale audibly through the nose, often to smell something.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use sniff
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English sniffen, thought to imitate the sound of the action.
Full origin of sniff →Frequently asked questions
What does “sniff” mean?
The word “sniff” means to inhale audibly through the nose, often to smell something. In plain terms, a short, noticeable inhale through the nose — or, more loosely, showing disdain toward something.
How do you pronounce “sniff”?
“Sniff” is pronounced snihf (/snɪf/ in IPA).
How do you use “sniff” in a sentence?
Here is “sniff” used in a sentence: “The dog sniffed the ground, following the scent.”
What part of speech is “sniff”?
Depending on how it is used, “sniff” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “sniff” come from?
The word “sniff” comes from Middle English. From Middle English sniffen, thought to imitate the sound of the action.
Is “sniff” a common word?
“Sniff” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “sniff” have?
“Sniff” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to inhale audibly through the nose, often to smell something.