What does sniggle mean?
To sniggle is to laugh quietly or with suppressed amusement. The word often suggests that the laughter is intended to remain secret or discreet, whether it comes from a child, a group sharing an amusing observation, or someone trying not to react in public. A sniggle is generally restrained rather than explosive, so it conveys both amusement and an awareness that drawing attention to the laughter would be awkward or inappropriate. The related noun, a sniggle, denotes the quiet laugh itself. Although sniggle and snicker can overlap in ordinary use, sniggle more clearly emphasizes quietness and concealment, while snicker often has a mocking edge. The expression is most natural in informal narrative writing, dialogue, and descriptions of everyday social interaction.
To laugh quietly or in a suppressed manner.
"He could not stop sniggling at the unexpected joke."
Informal and often used of laughter that is deliberately kept quiet or secret.
A quiet or suppressed laugh.
"A few nervous sniggles came from the audience."
More commonly used in narrative and descriptive contexts than in formal speech.
The plural is used for individual quiet laughs or instances of suppressed amusement.
"The suppressed sniggles spread through the back row."
A sniggle is laughter trying not to be heard—quiet enough for a secret, but impossible to hide completely.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sniggle come from?
Sniggle originated in the early 19th century as an imitative word for a suppressed laugh. It belongs to a group of English verbs formed to suggest small or concealed noises, such as snicker and snigger. Its sound imitates the idea of laughter being quietly held back, rather than documenting a precise sound made by an animal or instrument.
Related word forms
How sniggle is actually used
The word is somewhat playful and informal. It describes laughter that is deliberately quiet or concealed and is often associated with children, whispered exchanges, or amusement at something unnoticed.
Easily confused with sniggle
A sniggle is a quiet or furtive laugh, whereas a snicker often suggests a laugh that is mocking or disparaging.