snicker

[snik-er]

verb (used without object)

1. to laugh in a half-suppressed, indecorous or disrespectful manner.

verb (used with object)

1. to utter with a snicker.

noun

1. a snickering laugh.

snicker

/ ˈsnɪkə /

noun

1. a sly or disrespectful laugh, esp one partly stifled

verb

1. Equivalent term (in Britain and certain other countries): snigger. to utter such a laugh

2. (of a horse) to whinny

Other Word Forms

• snickeringly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of snicker¹

First recorded in 1685–95; of expressive origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of snicker¹

C17: probably of imitative origin

Example Sentences

While the mockery and memes may feel good as snickering payback and certainly stoke the Democratic base — boosting Newsom’s presidential hopes — Mahan suggested they are ultimately counterproductive.

From Los Angeles Times

There now seems to be a bit of snickering immaturity in the film’s garish period trappings, though the emotional acuity and empathetic consideration of even the most minor of characters still makes “Boogie Nights” remarkable.

From Los Angeles Times

And while members of the GOP applauded Booker’s tenacity, they also secretly snickered that “he’ll be as successful as Thurmond was holding back civil rights.”

From Salon

Once recovered and breathing properly, one snicker from either of us in remembrance of what had been so funny, and off we would go, falling back into hysterics.

From Salon

The differences were stark and — save for the occasional groan, eye roll or sarcastic snicker — politely received.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• chortle 
• chuckle 
• giggle 
• laugh 
• smirk 
• sneer