Definition

Having a runny nose or the tendency to sniffle, often due to a cold or allergies.

Example

She sounded sniffly after catching a cold.

Conversation

I think I'm getting a cold; I feel really sniffly today.

Oh no! That's the worst, especially with the weather changing.

Yeah, I can't remember the last time I felt this sniffly.

Make sure to rest and drink plenty of fluids!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sniffly → It is formed from "sniff" (of uncertain origin, likely imitative of the sound made when inhaling sharply through the nose) and "-ly" (a suffix meaning in a manner of). The word "sniffly" describes a manner of breathing that is characterized by sniffing, often due to a cold or allergies.

Memory Tip

Think of the sound made when someone inhales sharply through their nose — that's what 'sniffly' describes, a way of breathing that involves sniffing.

Visually Confused Words