sniff
This word evokes a sharp, sudden intake of air, often associated with sensory exploration or emotional distress. When used to describe smelling something, it implies a deliberate, concentrated effort to identify a scent, whereas the intransitive use typically suggests a physical reaction to mucus or tears. In a figurative sense, the word shifts toward suspicion and curiosity. It suggests a cautious, probing approach to gathering information, mirroring the way an animal uses its nose to track a scent. This creates a connotation of skepticism or investigative instinct.
Meanings
To inhale air through the nose in short, audible breaths to smell something.
"He leaned in to sniff the fresh roses."
To draw air in through the nose in a short, audible way, often to express contempt or as a result of crying.
"She sniffed loudly before answering the question."
To investigate or search for something using the sense of smell, typically like a dog.
"The bloodhound began to sniff the trail."
A short, audible inhalation of air through the nose.
"He took a quick sniff of the perfume."
An act of smelling something to identify it.
"One sniff of the air told her that rain was coming."