What does sniffing mean?
Sniffing is the repeated or deliberate drawing of air through the nose to detect a smell, and it can also refer to the sound produced by doing so. In ordinary contexts, it describes ordinary sensory behavior: a dog sniffing the ground, a person sniffing food, or someone sniffing the air to identify a scent. Informally, "sniffing around" means searching for information or looking for signs of wrongdoing, often with a suspicious or intrusive tone. Sniffing can also describe a noticeable nasal sound associated with crying, a cold, or emotional distress. The word is useful because it covers both a precise physical action and a broader informal meaning connected with curiosity, detection, and investigation.
The act or sound of drawing air through the nose, usually repeatedly, to detect a smell.
"His loud sniffing filled the quiet room."
Often used for repeated nasal inhalations, whether deliberate or caused by crying, congestion, or emotion.
To draw air through the nose in short, repeated breaths to detect a smell; informally, to investigate or search for signs of wrongdoing.
"The dog was sniffing the grass while the officers searched the house."
The figurative sense, especially in "sniffing around" and "sniffing out," is informal and can imply suspicion or persistent inquiry.
Usually used in the plural when referring to recorded instances of sniffing, as in an investigation; the singular form is also common for the activity or sound.
"The recording contained clear sniffings and rustling throughout the night."
Sniffing can mean simply catching a scent—or, informally, looking for clues that others would rather keep hidden.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sniffing come from?
The present participle "sniffing" is derived from "sniff," a word of uncertain but old English origins associated with drawing air through the nose to detect an odor. The verb developed into figurative senses involving investigation and searching, as in "sniffing out" a problem or opportunity. The related word "sniffy" refers to someone who is disdainful or contemptuous, while "sniffer" denotes a person or device that detects or searches for something.
Related word forms
How sniffing is actually used
In its ordinary sense, sniffing is generally neutral or slightly clinical. The expression "sniffing around" is informal and can suggest persistent, suspicious, or intrusive investigation. Repeated sniffing may also describe a symptom of crying, congestion, or nervousness, depending on context.
Easily confused with sniffing
Sniffing is the deliberate or repeated act of drawing air through the nose, whereas a sniffle is a short, noisy inhalation associated with crying, a cold, or nasal congestion.