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
According to CNN, Hicks was "audibly sniffling with tears," resulting in a brief interruption to proceedings and both she and the jury leaving the room.
From Salon ● May 3, 2024
Are we still paying off our pandemic-induced “immunity debt,” or is there another reason that it feels like we’re all sniffling and coughing and just feeling sick?
From Slate ● Jan. 28, 2024
I didn’t want anyone to hear me sniffling.
From "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram
