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Sniffle - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A sniffle is a slight, repeated sound made when someone breathes in noisily through the nose, often due to a cold or crying. It can also refer to the act of doing this.

sniffle

/ˈsnɪfəl/ /ˈsnɪf(ə)l/

Definition:

To sniff repeatedly due to a cold or crying, or the sound made by this action.

Synonyms:

snivel, whimper, blubber

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

laugh, cheer

Common Collocations:

cold sniffle, slight sniffle, stop sniffling

Derivatives:

sniffler, sniffling

Usage Tips:

Use "sniffle" to describe light nasal sounds from crying or a cold; avoid for loud sobbing or sneezing.

Common Phrases:

case of the sniffles, stop your sniffling

Etymology:

Imitative origin from the sound of repeated nasal inhalation; related to "sniff."

Examples:

  • 1. She had a slight sniffle after playing in the rain.
  • 2. He tried not to sniffle during the sad movie.
  • 3. The child's constant sniffling kept everyone awake at night.
  • 4. A box of tissues helps when you have a sniffle.

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