sniff

UK: snɪf | US: snɪf

Definition

  1. v. to inhale air audibly through the nose, especially to detect a smell

  2. n. an act or sound of sniffing

Structure

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Etymology

The word "sniff" is imitative in origin, derived from the sound of quick inhalation through the nose. The initial sn- is a common Germanic prefix associated with nasal actions (e.g., "snore," "sneeze"), while -iff suggests a repetitive or light action. It emerged in Middle English (14th century) as a vivid onomatopoeic term, retaining its sensory association with smell detection.

Examples

  1. The dog sniffed the ground for traces of food.

  2. She gave a disapproving sniff when she entered the dusty room.

  3. He sniffed loudly to clear his stuffy nose.

  4. The detective sniffed the letter, suspecting poison.

  5. A faint sniff of lavender lingered in the air.