snicker

UK: ˈsnɪkə | US: ˈsnɪkər

Definition

  1. vi. to laugh in a half-suppressed, sly, or disrespectful manner

  2. n. a sly, stifled laugh

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

"Snicker" is an onomatopoeic word, imitating the sound of a stifled laugh. It emerged in the late 17th century, likely influenced by similar words like "snigger" (also imitative). Its playful, sneaky connotation reflects the sound’s association with muffled or mocking laughter.

Examples

  1. The students tried not to snicker during the serious lecture.

  2. She covered her mouth to hide a snicker at his clumsy attempt.

  3. His joke was so bad that it only earned a few awkward snickers.

  4. The audience began to snicker when the actor forgot his lines.

  5. A faint snicker escaped her lips as she watched the puppy chase its tail.