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Snicker - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A snicker is a quiet, often sly or mocking laugh, usually expressing amusement, scorn, or disbelief. It can also refer to the sound made when laughing in this way.

snicker

/ˈsnɪkər/ /ˈsnɪkə/

Definition:

To laugh quietly or disrespectfully, often at someone else's expense.

Synonyms:

giggle, chuckle, titter

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

sob, cry

Common Collocations:

snicker quietly, snicker behind someone's back, stifle a snicker

Derivatives:

snickering, snickered

Usage Tips:

Use "snicker" to describe a quiet, often mocking laugh; avoid confusion with louder laughter like "guffaw."

Common Phrases:

snicker behind one's hand, a snicker of derision

Etymology:

Originated from Middle Dutch "snicken," meaning to gasp or sob; later evolved to mean a suppressed laugh.

Examples:

  • 1. She tried not to snicker during the serious meeting.
  • 2. The kids would snicker whenever the teacher mispronounced a word.
  • 3. He gave a quiet snicker at his friend's joke.
  • 4. A few audience members began to snicker at the awkward performance.

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