Snivel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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snivel
[ˈsnɪvəl ]
Definitions
crying
To cry and sniffle.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| snivel |
This word is often used to describe crying and complaining in a weak or annoying way, usually accompanied by a runny nose.
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| whimper |
This word is used for gentle, quiet cries or low, feeble sounds often made when someone is scared, hurt, or in discomfort.
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| snuffle |
This word describes making sniffing noises, often due to crying or having a cold and a runny nose.
|
| blubber |
This word is used when someone is crying loudly and uncontrollably, often in a way that seems exaggerated or overly emotional.
|
Examples of usage
- Stop sniveling and wipe your tears.
- She sniveled quietly in the corner.
complaining
To complain in a way that shows you are weak or in pain.
Synonyms
complaining, grumbling, whining.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| snivel |
when someone is crying or whimpering in a self-pitying way
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| whining |
when someone is making a high-pitched, complaining sound; often seen as annoying or childish
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| complaining |
when someone is expressing dissatisfaction or annoyance about something
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| grumbling |
when someone is expressing dissatisfaction in a low, often muttering voice; it can imply a degree of persistent annoyance
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Examples of usage
- His snivel about the unfairness of the situation annoyed everyone.
- Don't listen to his constant snivel, he's just seeking attention.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Crying or sniveling can be a way for individuals to seek comfort and attention during distress.
- Psychologists suggest that expressing emotions like this is a healthy way to process feelings.
- Often viewed negatively, sniveling can nonetheless signify vulnerability and the need for support.
Pop Culture
- Various film and TV characters are depicted sniveling to highlight their cowardice or over-the-top emotional reactions.
- In children's literature, characters that snivel often get comedic responses from others, creating humorous situations.
- The portrayal of sniveling in media often plays on the expectations of audience responses, either comedic or sympathetic.
Literature
- Authors use sniveling to portray a character's weakness or vulnerability, adding depth to their emotional struggles.
- In classic poetry, the act of sniveling may symbolize despair or loss, offering insight into the character's psyche.
- The literary device enhances the theme of childhood innocence when depicted through young characters expressing their sorrow.
Origin of 'snivel'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'snivelen,' which means to cry or whimper.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'snifa,' meaning to sniffle or take a breath.
- In the 15th century, the term was commonly associated with a childlike way of crying.
The word 'snivel' originated from the Middle English word 'snyflen', which meant 'to run at the nose'. Over time, it evolved to also mean 'to cry and sniffle'. The negative connotation of sniveling as a form of complaining developed later, highlighting weakness or self-pity.