sniff at

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.

This is the evidence Robinson believes can be England's X-factor at the World Cup, irrespective of those "purists" who may sniff at such an approach.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

It was about 8:30 p.m. when the spotted beast appeared and stopped to sniff at mountain lion scat before opening its jaw.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 11, 2024

Closer to home in the present, the telescope will sniff at the atmospheres of planets orbiting nearby stars, looking for the infrared signatures of elements and molecules associated with life, like oxygen and water.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 25, 2021

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 strained his neck forward to sniff at Alex’s outstretched hand.

From "Eleven" by Tom Rogers