sniffle

American  

[snif-uhl] / ˈsnɪf əl /

verb (used without object)

sniffled, sniffling

1. to sniff repeatedly, as from a head cold or in repressing tears.

   She sniffled woefully.

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noun

1. an act or sound of sniffling.

2. (the) sniffles, a condition, as a cold, marked by sniffling.

   This draft is giving me the sniffles.

sniffle British  

/ ˈsnɪfəl /

verb

1. (intr) to breathe audibly through the nose, as when the nasal passages are congested

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noun

1. the act, sound, or an instance of sniffling

Other Word Forms

• sniffler noun
• sniffly adjective

Etymology

Origin of sniffle

First recorded in 1625–35; sniff + -le

Example Sentences

However, once the coronavirus began to spread, many wondered if presenteeism would wane as the public grew more fearful of those with a cough or sniffle — but that didn’t seem to last long.

From Salon • Feb. 15, 2024

She said it began with a "sniffle and a little cough" and he died just a week later.

From BBC • Aug. 7, 2023

After more than two years of pandemic life, many people are familiar with the worry and fear that can be triggered by a sore throat, sniffle or fatigue: Do I have covid-19?

From Washington Post • Jun. 17, 2022

Seattle Pro Musica, on the other hand, requires masks and proof of vaccination for both rehearsals and concerts and is urging members to stay home if they have so much as a sniffle.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 9, 2022

George’s stomach lurched when there was another sniffle and a snort, followed by the words, “Oh, Charlotte, I miss you so,” and snickers.

From "George" by Alex Gino

Related Words

• choke
• snort
• whoop