sniffle
verb (used without object)
to sniff repeatedly, as from a head cold or in repressing tears.
sniffling
-
present participleof sniffle.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
For the 23-year-old Christmas can be a particularly difficult time as the sounds of other people, chewing, slurping and sniffling make her feel extremely uncomfortable.
From BBC ● Dec. 23, 2025
Lying would be obvious if you’re not coughing, sniffling or sneezing, and insulting to the other person.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 4, 2025
Bergquam also cried on screen, and Gruber shifted from sniffling to informing the show’s visibly upset host that “the anger is coming now.”
From Slate ● Sep. 22, 2025
José stared at the ground, sniffling, pulling up his shirt to wipe away tears.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 17, 2025
Fra-gile-ness is mighty embarrassing, even if you’re a girl, so me and Emma both hanged back a little to get the sniffling out of us.
From "Elijah of Buxton" by Christopher Paul Curtis
