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Definitions

sniff at



VERB
thumb one's nose
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

What he lacked was a modicum of a chance, a sniff at goal.

From BBC • Sep. 25, 2025

And YouTube is nothing to sniff at: According to Nielsen, the platform attracts a greater share of streaming users than any other single platform, including Netflix.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2023

“India is working with great fervor with Israel on defense and technology, and Adani now has a port there. You think the Indian government can sniff at that?” said Bhaskar.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 2, 2023

Unlike in the city, here my dog rarely pulls on the leash to sniff at a fire hydrant or an electric pole.

From Salon • Oct. 23, 2021

He watched the tiny ink Mrs. Norris turn left and pause to sniff at something on the floor.

From "Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban" by J.K. Rowling




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