snorkel

[snawr-kuhl]

noun

1. British, snort. a device permitting a submarine to remain submerged for prolonged periods, consisting of tubes extended above the surface of the water to take in air for the diesel engine and for general ventilation and to discharge exhaust gases and foul air.

2. a hard rubber or plastic tube through which a swimmer can breathe while moving face down at or just below the surface of the water.

verb (used without object)

1. to engage in snorkeling.

snorkel

/ ˈsnɔːkəl /

noun

1. a device allowing a swimmer to breathe while face down on the surface of the water, consisting of a bent tube fitting into the mouth and projecting above the surface

2. (on a submarine) a retractable vertical device containing air-intake and exhaust pipes for the engines and general ventilation: its use permits extended periods of submergence at periscope depth

3. military a similar device on a tank, enabling it to cross shallow water obstacles

4. a type of parka or anorak with a hood that projects beyond the face

verb

1. (intr) to swim with a snorkel

Other Word Forms

• snorkeler noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of snorkel¹

First recorded in 1940–45, snorkel is from the German word Schnorchel air intake

Word History and Origins

Origin of snorkel¹

C20: from German Schnorchel; related to German schnarchen to _snore

Example Sentences

Now, people from around the world compete in the 120 yard snorkel in a muddy bog, which takes place in Powys each year.

From BBC

Heather Hamilton, who snorkels off the coast of Cornwall virtually every week with her father David, has swum through large blooms of salps, a species that looks a bit like a jellyfish.

From BBC

Anna Beaumont, from St Fagans, Cardiff, died while snorkelling at the Discovery Cove theme park in Orlando in May last year.

From BBC

He dove off a boat to snorkel with his daughter in the ocean, then couldn’t “swim and generate enough power to get myself back to the boat.”

From Los Angeles Times

Either way, you can snorkel and kayak in sea caves with a guide and rented vessel from Channel Islands Adventure Co.

From Los Angeles Times