What does snuffler mean?
A snuffler is an object traditionally used to extinguish a candle or small flame by covering it and cutting off its oxygen. It may take the form of a cone-shaped cap on a handle, often made of metal. The word can also denote a person who snuffs tobacco, especially in older or literary contexts, although the more usual modern word for the candle device is snuffer. Today, matches and lighters have largely replaced snufflers in ordinary use, but the term survives in discussions of historic lighting, household objects, and traditional candle care. In literary descriptions, “snuffing out the candles” can also suggest putting out a light quietly or ceremonially, giving the word an atmosphere of restraint, intimacy, or an ending to the day.
A device used to extinguish a candle or small flame by covering it.
"He reached for the snuffler and extinguished the last candle."
Usually less common than the modern term “snuffer.”
A person who snuffs tobacco.
"The portrait depicts a wealthy snuffler holding a small box of tobacco."
This sense is dated or literary and refers to someone who takes powdered tobacco by inhalation.
The plural is standard, though the word itself is relatively uncommon.
"The museum displayed several antique candle snufflers."
Before electric light, extinguishing a candle was a small ritual: snuff out the flame, close the shutters, and welcome the evening.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does snuffler come from?
The word derives from the verb “snuff,” in the sense of extinguishing a flame, with the suffix “-er” denoting an instrument or person associated with that action. The related word “snuffer” became the standard modern term for the candle-extinguishing device. The tobacco sense developed from the separate practice of taking snuff, which involves inhaling powdered tobacco through the nostrils.
How snuffler is actually used
In contemporary usage, “snuffer” is much more common for the candle-extinguishing device. “Snuffler” can sound dated or literary, especially when referring to someone who uses snuff.
Easily confused with snuffler
A snuffer is the standard modern term for a device that extinguishes a candle or flame, whereas snuffler is a less common variant or a term for a person who snuffs something.