What does sniveling mean?
Sniveling means crying in a weak, nasal, or plaintive way, and it often suggests that the person is tearful, upset, or complaining in a childlike manner. The word can describe a literal sound, such as the sniffling tears of a distressed child, or a figurative emotional style, as in someone who is always sniveling about minor difficulties. Its nasal, slightly old-fashioned character gives it more vivid and expressive force than the neutral word "crying." Sniveling is also used figuratively for persistent, emotionally demonstrative complaining. The spelling "sniveling" is standard in American English, while "snivelling" is the usual British form. It is especially effective when the writer wants to convey not only tears but also the accompanying sound and attitude of protest or helplessness.
To cry in a weak, nasal, or plaintive manner.
"The baby lay sniveling while the nurse adjusted the blanket."
Often used with a mildly negative or dismissive tone when describing someone who complains tearfully.
Crying in a weak, nasal, or plaintive manner, or characterized by such behavior.
"The sniveling child tugged at his sister's sleeve."
The adjectival use is often figurative, describing persistent or childish complaining.
Sniveling is an old, vivid word for the particular sound of tears that comes with a trembling, protesting voice.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sniveling come from?
The word comes from the English verb "snivel," which originally referred to crying or making a sniffing or nasal sound. Its spelling and pronunciation reflect an imitative origin, imitating the sound made by someone crying through the nose. The present-participle form has long been used both for the act of crying in this manner and, attributively, for a person who behaves tearfully or complains excessively.
Related word forms
How sniveling is actually used
The form "sniveling" is common in American English; British English more often uses "snivelling". The word can be literal, describing crying, or figurative, describing persistent, childish complaining.
Easily confused with sniveling
Sniffling means breathing noisily through the nose, whereas sniveling usually implies crying in a weak, nasal, or plaintive voice.