Sniveling - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

expressing distress

Sniveling refers to the act of crying or whimpering in a weak or feeble manner. It often conveys a sense of self-pity or vulnerability. The term is frequently used to describe someone who is excessively emotive or complaining in a childish way. Sniveling can also indicate physical symptoms like a runny nose, especially when someone is upset or unwell.

Synonyms

blubbering, crying, snuffling, whimpering.

Examples of usage

The child was sniveling after losing his toy.
She couldn’t help sniveling at the sad movie.
He sat in a corner, sniveling about his recent misfortunes.
When confronted about his mistakes, he started sniveling.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Sniveling can be a sign of emotional distress or vulnerability, often associated with feelings of inadequacy.
People might snivel when they feel overwhelmed, showing how emotions can manifest through physical expressions.
Psychologically, frequent sniveling may indicate an inability to cope with conflict or frustration.

Pop Culture

The character Gollum from J.R.R. Tolkien’s 'The Lord of the Rings' series is often portrayed with sniveling behavior, highlighting his desperation.
In many cartoons, characters are shown sniveling for comedic effect, exemplifying the trope of exaggerated sadness.
Movies often depict sniveling during key dramatic moments, used to evoke sympathy from the audience.

Literature

In classic literature, sniveling often represents a lack of courage or fortitude in characters facing challenges.
Authors have used sniveling to evoke pity, creating complex emotional layers in their characters by showing their weaknesses.
The portrayal of sniveling has evolved, often linked to themes of survival or moral failing in narrative arcs.

Sociology

Culturally, sniveling can be viewed as undesirable, often associated with perceived weakness in both personal and social settings.
In some communities, expressing emotion through sniveling may be more accepted, showcasing different cultural attitudes toward vulnerability.
The response to sniveling can vary, with some encouraging openness and others promoting stoicism in emotional expression.

Origin of 'sniveling'

Main points about word origin

The word 'snivel' has roots in Old Norse, derived from 'snúfr,' meaning to snort.
In the 14th century, it was used to describe whining or complaining, emphasizing a weak demeanor.
The addition of '-ing' transforms it into a present participle, making it describe ongoing behavior.

The word 'sniveling' originates from the late Middle English term 'snivel', which is derived from the Old English 'snyflian', meaning 'to snuffle' or 'to weep or cry weakly'. The term reflects a physical action of sniffing or sounding of tears, associated with the act of crying. Historically, the connotation of 'sniveling' has often carried an implication of insincerity or undue self-pity, suggesting that the person crying is doing so in a manipulative or attention-seeking manner. Over time, the meaning has broadened to encompass not just the crying itself but also the emotive act of complaining or expressing distress in a way that might be considered excessive.

Sniveling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations