Sniffing

Sniffing is the act of drawing air audibly through the nose, often repeatedly. It can be a physiological response to an irritant, a way to detect a scent, or a behavior expressing a variety of emotions, such as curiosity, disapproval, or excitement. It also can involve the inhalation of substances, often illicit drugs, for their psychoactive effects. The context in which sniffing occurs profoundly influences its interpretation, varying from a natural reflex to a criminal activity. It serves to assess environmental information through scent and can be used by some to assess a person's emotional state. This activity allows for the detection of both external and internal conditions.

Sniffing meaning with examples

• The detective was sniffing around the crime scene, trying to catch a trace of the criminal's cologne. He *sniffed* at the air, pausing now and then, trying to pick up any clues. The air had many smells, making it difficult to isolate anything but the most dominant of odors. He *sniffed* again, trying to distinguish between the police and the murderer's distinct smells, to give him any lead.
• The puppy, curious about the strange object, started sniffing it with gusto. Tail wagging, he began to *sniff*, attempting to discern what the shape was. He moved his wet nose along the surface, inhaling deeply. Then the puppy *sniffed* again, looking up to the sky.
• As the chef entered the kitchen, he began sniffing the air for freshness and scent to ensure a quality product. He *sniffed* a bit more, getting ready for the day's meals. After sniffing the air he knew the quality of the ingredients was where it should be.
• The child, feeling upset, kept sniffing back tears and breathing hard as she tried to suppress the urge to cry in public. The sniffle turned into several more sniffing breaths, so it was obvious to everyone that she was upset. Trying not to let the tears come, she would have to wait, as she could not *sniff* her feelings away.
• The addict was seen sniffing cocaine in a darkened alleyway. The addict *sniffed* it, as it provided the high they sought. He quickly *sniffed* it up, and a smile grew on his face, only to be replaced by sadness when the high was gone.