Snicker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snicker

[ˈsnɪkər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

laughing quietly

To snicker means to laugh in a half-suppressed, typically scornful way. It is a smothered or half-suppressed laugh. Snickering often conveys a sense of amusement at someone else's expense, and can be seen as mocking or derisive.

Synonyms

chuckle, giggle, snigger.

Examples of usage

  • He couldn't help but snicker at the clumsy waiter.
  • She tried to hide her snicker behind her hand.
Context #2 | Verb

laugh quietly

When used as a verb, to snicker means to give a smothered or half-suppressed laugh. It is often associated with amusement or contempt. Snickering can be done quietly to avoid detection or to convey a sense of superiority.

Synonyms

chuckle, giggle, snigger.

Examples of usage

  • The students couldn't help but snicker at the teacher's corny joke.
  • I could hear him snickering in the back of the room.

Translations

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Origin of 'snicker'

The word 'snicker' originated in the late 17th century and is believed to be of Scandinavian origin. It is related to the Old Norse word 'snikra', which means 'to titter'. Over time, the word evolved to its current usage in English to describe a quiet or suppressed laugh, often with a hint of mockery or derision.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,338 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.