Snort: meaning, definitions and examples

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snort

[snɔːt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

sound

To make an explosive sound by forcing air quickly through the nose or mouth.

Synonyms

huff, puff, snuffle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snort	Used when describing a sound made by humans or animals, usually when breathing out forcefully through their nose. It often conveys annoyance or derision. She snorted in disbelief at his explanation
snuffle	Refers to making noise through the nose due to a cold or congestion. It often indicates a soft, repeated sound. He snuffled quietly all night due to his cold
huff	Used to describe the action of someone breathing heavily and angrily or resentfully. It often indicates that someone is upset or out of breath, sometimes due to exertion. He huffed and puffed after running up the stairs
puff	Describes a short burst of breath or air, usually when someone is out of breath or trying to catch their breath after physical exertion. It can also mean to blow air out gently in short bursts. She puffed out the candles on the cake

Examples of usage

He snorted with laughter at the joke.
The horse snorted in protest as its rider urged it forward.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

disdain

To express contempt or disapproval by sniffing audibly.

Synonyms

mock, scoff, sneer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snort	When someone makes a sudden sound through their nose, often in response to something funny or annoying. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts. She couldn't help but snort with laughter at the joke. He snorted in frustration when his computer crashed again.
scoff	When someone expresses scorn or disbelief, often by making a sound or sharp remark. This word tends to have a dismissive or contemptuous tone. He scoffed at the idea of working overtime without extra pay. She scoffed, unable to believe his outrageous claim.
sneer	When someone shows contempt or disdain through a facial expression, usually by curling their lip. This word has a strong negative connotation. He sneered at the newcomers, clearly unimpressed. Her sneer made it clear she didn't respect their opinions.
mock	When someone imitates or ridicules another person, often in a mean or joking way. This word usually carries a negative connotation. The children mocked their friend for his new haircut. She felt hurt when her colleagues mocked her accent.

Examples of usage

She snorted at the suggestion that she was wrong.
He snorted in disbelief at the ridiculous claim.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

sound

A loud, harsh sound made by forcing air through the nose or mouth.

Synonyms

grunt, huff, sniff.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snort	Used typically to describe a quick, sudden noise made through the nose, often showing amusement or disbelief. 'He snorted with laughter at the joke ' 'She snorted in disbelief '
grunt	Commonly used for a low, short sound made from the throat, often displaying effort, irritation, or dissatisfaction. 'He grunted as he lifted the heavy box ' 'She grunted in annoyance '
sniff	Describes the act of inhaling through the nose to sense a smell or to clear the nose. It can also indicate crying or being emotional. 'She sniffed the flowers in the garden ' 'He sniffed quietly, trying to hide his tears '
huff	Implies a louder, forceful exhale usually indicating frustration, annoyance, or anger. 'He left the room in a huff ' 'She huffed when she didn't get her way '

Examples of usage

The snort of a pig can be heard from far away.
She let out a snort of laughter at the funny sight.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'snort' comes from the Middle English word 'snorten', meaning to make a noise through the nose.
Its roots can be traced back to the Old English 'snoran', which meant to snore or make a similar noise.
The use of 'snort' as a playful or laugh-related sound emerged in the 19th century.

Science

Snorting can occur not just with laughter but also when someone has a cold, as air is forcefully expelled to clear nasal passages.
In animals, particularly pigs, snorting is a common vocalization that can indicate happiness or excitement.
Research shows that laughter often produces nasal sounds, including snorts, as a result of relaxed nasal passages.

Pop Culture

In popular media, characters often snort when they laugh hard, emphasizing their amusement and creating a humorous effect.
The term has been referenced in various songs and movies, highlighting the quirky and funny aspect of the sound.
Internet memes often feature people snorting while laughing to make the content relatable and funny.

Psychology

People often snort when they find something very funny, signaling a strong emotional response to humor.
Studies suggest that laughter, accompanied by snorts, can strengthen social bonds among individuals by promoting shared happiness.
In some cases, a snort can indicate nervousness or embarrassment, depending on the context of the laughter.

Literature

Many authors use snorting to convey a character's unique laugh or an awkward moment, adding depth to their personalities.
In children's books, snorts are often illustrated to show animals or characters having fun, making it more engaging for readers.
Notable works in comedy frequently include characters who snort as a trademark of their humor, enhancing the storyline.

Translations

Translations of the word "snort" in other languages:

🇵🇹 roncar

🇮🇳 सूंघना

🇩🇪 schnüffeln

🇮🇩 mendengus

🇺🇦 хропіти

🇵🇱 chrapać

🇯🇵 いびきをかく

🇫🇷 ronfler

🇪🇸 roncar

🇹🇷 horlamak

🇰🇷 코를 골다

🇸🇦 يشخر

🇨🇿 chrápat

🇸🇰 chrápať

🇨🇳 打鼾

🇸🇮 smrčati

🇮🇸 hrjóta

🇰🇿 қырылдау

🇬🇪 ხვრინვა

🇦🇿 xoruldamaq

🇲🇽 roncar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,839, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21837 reciprocally
21838 assaulting
21839 snort
21840 reallocation
21841 busted
21842 piloted
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