sniffer

[ snif-er ]

noun

1. a person or thing that sniffs.
2. a device or mechanism for detecting something.

ˈsniffer

/ ˈsnɪfə /

noun

1. a device for detecting hidden substances such as drugs or explosives, esp by their odour
2. a computer program or device used to monitor, detect, and capture data on a network

Word History and Origins

Origin of sniffer¹

First recorded in 1860–65; sniff + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Doctors would choose a sniffer designed to detect a particular vapor.

From Science News For Students

His electronic sniffers would trace a network’s lines and nodes and report back what they found.

From Singularity Hub 

It would be far more economical to build an artificial sniffer apparatus that wouldn’t die after a few years, with standard software that can be updated regularly across all the board.

From Nautilus

But Kardashian, a savvy trend sniffer in reality television, fashion, and self-merchandising, was apparently the last to know.

From The Daily Beast

Existing methodology can involve plough-like, armor-plated machines, handheld metal detectors and sniffer dogs.

From The Daily Beast

In the face of such compelling images, the immediate response is to send money, food, medicines, relief workers, sniffer dogs.

From The Daily Beast

Perhaps the spirit of the sniffer may still inspire some of the jurors who from time to time make themselves heard in your case.

From Project Gutenberg

He has had ten dollars' worth of telling to-day by 'Sniffer' Orne.

From Project Gutenberg

It is a very strong sniffer and full of zeal, and one day it did it.

From Project Gutenberg

Have you decided to have Mrs. Poteet and Mrs. Sniffer swap—er—puppies, Stonie?

From Project Gutenberg

She had seen hell, one might say, and is the Sphynxian sniffer at the value of a secret.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• beak
• snout