Sniffling: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'sniffling' is derived from the verb 'sniff', which dates back to the 14th century, relating to the act of drawing air through the nose with a noise. The suffix '-ling' is added to denote a diminutive or engaging in the action of sniffling, which intensifies the sense of sound associated with the act. 'Sniff' itself comes from Middle Dutch 'snuffeln', which means to snuff or to inhale audibly. The emergence of 'sniffling' emphasizes the emotional aspect of the act, often linked to crying or respiratory irritation. Over time, its usage expanded to denote not just the physical act but also the emotional state associated with it, particularly in literary contexts, where a character's sniffling might indicate sadness or vulnerability.

This word's position of #34,443 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

• ...
• 34440 castigate
• 34441 nuke
• 34442 shafted
• 34443 sniffling
• 34444 outweighing
• 34445 heist
• 34446 apparelled
• ...