Snuffled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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snuffled
[ˈsnʌf.əld ]
Definition
sound or noise
To snuffle means to make a sound like a snort, often associated with a nose that is obstructed. It can refer to the act of sniffing repeatedly, usually because of a cold or allergies. This word can also imply a gentle or quiet sound made while inhaling through the nose.
Synonyms
sniffle, snort, snuffle, wheeze.
Examples of usage
- She snuffled softly as she tried to breathe through her cold.
- The puppy snuffled around the garden looking for treats.
- He snuffled his way through the book, occasionally pausing to blow his nose.
- The child snuffled while watching the sad movie.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Animal Behavior
- Many animals, like dogs, snuffle as a way to explore their environment, using their sense of smell to gather information.
- Pigs are known for their snuffling habits when rooting through the ground in search of food, showcasing their foraging techniques.
- Certain small mammals, like rabbits or rodents, often snuffle during grooming or when they feel safe, creating a comforting atmosphere.
Health
- Snuffling can often indicate nasal congestion, common during colds or allergies, as the body tries to clear the airways.
- Certain medications may reduce snuffling by decreasing inflammation in the nasal passages, improving breathing.
- When children snuffle, it can sometimes be a playful mimicry of animal sounds, helping them develop communication skills.
Literature
- In children's books, characters often snuffle to convey gentleness or innocence, making them relatable and endearing.
- Poets may use 'snuffle' to evoke imagery of rural life and nature, connecting reader emotions to the sounds of the environment.
- Famous characters, such as those in animal fables, might embody the snuffling sounds to enhance their personality traits.
Pop Culture
- Animated shows often portray characters snuffling for comic relief, enhancing their quirky personalities.
- In popular films, snuffling sounds can indicate confusion or curiosity, adding depth to character interactions.
- Merchandising around pets often features plush toys making snuffling sounds, tapping into children's affection for animals.
Origin of 'snuffled'
Main points about word origin
- The term likely originates from the word 'snuff,' which relates to inhaling something through the nose.
- Old English uses the word 'snuffian,' meaning to sniff or breathe, showing its long history in the language.
- In various dialects, 'snuffle' has been used for centuries to describe both animals and humans making similar noises.
The word 'snuffle' dates back to the 16th century and comes from the Middle English word 'snufflen', which is a combination of 'snuff' and the diminutive suffix '-le'. 'Snuff' itself comes from the Old English 'snoof', meaning to snort, inhale, or sniff. The development of the word reflects a continuous evolution in the language as sounds associated with breathing and smelling became encapsulated in this term. The act of snuffling is often characterized by its soft, repetitive noises, which are typically made when experiencing nasal congestion or when an animal is foraging for food. This etymological history highlights the physical and sensory associations that have influenced the meaning of the word through the ages, linking it closely with perception and the biological functions of breathing.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #37,633, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.
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