English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

snivelling

Quiz me More like this

Snivelling (noun) means whimpering or complaining tearfully in an annoying or weak way. Example: “His constant snivelling made it hard to take his apology seriously.”

noun
1
Whimpering or complaining tearfully in an annoying or weak way.
"His constant snivelling made it hard to take his apology seriously."

How to use snivelling

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWhiny, tearful complaining that comes across as pathetic rather than sympathetic.

When to use it

Almost always used critically, implying the person is being weak or overly self-pitying.

Common pairings
stop your snivelling snivelling excuse
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like snivelling.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice

Word forms

Plural
snivellings
Test yourself on “snivelling” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

His constant _____ made it hard to take his apology seriously.

Rhymes for snivelling

See all rhymes for snivelling →

Frequently asked questions

What does “snivelling” mean?
The word “snivelling” means whimpering or complaining tearfully in an annoying or weak way. In plain terms, whiny, tearful complaining that comes across as pathetic rather than sympathetic.
How do you use “snivelling” in a sentence?
Here is “snivelling” used in a sentence: “His constant snivelling made it hard to take his apology seriously.”
What part of speech is “snivelling”?
“Snivelling” is a noun.
What is the meaning of snivelling?
"snivelling" (noun) means whimpering or complaining tearfully in an annoying or weak way.