sniffer

American  

[snif-er] / ˈsnɪf ər /

noun

1. a person or thing that sniffs.

2. a device or mechanism for detecting something.

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ˈsniffer British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of sniffer

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

Example Sentences

Footage from the campsite on Mount Maunganui shows rescuers and sniffer dogs combing through crushed caravans and flattened tents.

From BBC

Footage from the campsite on Mount Maunganui, an extinct volcano, shows a huge slip near the base of the volcanic dome, as rescuers and sniffer dogs comb through crushed caravans and flattened tents.

From BBC

Deputy police commissioner Sahibzada Yousaf told local media that sniffer dogs and advanced technology were used to ensure everyone was rescued from the rubble.

From BBC

Federal prosecutors said they were taken into custody after a judge ordered searches of their homes in the city by police officers backed by explosive sniffer dogs.

From BBC

Spanish emergency services said several crews - with drones and sniffer dogs - were deployed to look for those missing after Tuesday's collapse.

From BBC

Related Words

• beak
• snout