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snuff

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /snʌf/

KK: /snʌf/

adjective
Definition

Describing something that shows real violence or murder in a shocking way.


Example

The film was criticized for its snuff elements, which depicted actual killings.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about that new movie everyone is talking about?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard it's really snuff and intense.
Sloth A
I don't know if I can handle that kind of film.
Sloth B
Same here! I prefer something a bit lighter.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
gruesome
violent
macabre
Antonyms
gentle
peaceful
calm
intransitive verb
Definition

To inhale through the nose, often to smell something or to take in powdered tobacco.


Example

He decided to snuff the tobacco to enjoy its rich flavor.


Tense Forms

Past: snuffed

Past Participle: snuffed


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried to snuff a bit of that herbal stuff?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've heard it's quite an experience.
Sloth A
I found it really interesting how some people snuff it for relaxation.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

A powdery substance, often tobacco, that is inhaled through the nose.


Example

He took a pinch of snuff before the performance.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried snuff?
Sloth B
No, I haven’t! What’s it like?
Sloth A
It's a powdery tobacco that you inhale, and some people say it can be quite strong.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To kill or extinguish something, such as a candle or a life.


Example

The firefighters quickly snuffed the flames before they spread.


Tense Forms

Past: snuffed

Past Participle: snuffed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the fire at the old theater?
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s sad that so many memories were snuffed out in that blaze.
Sloth A
I know, right? It’s hard to believe such a place could just disappear.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

The word 'snuff' originates from Middle English 'snuffen', meaning to extinguish or to inhale through the nose. It is related to the Old Norse 'snufa', meaning to sniff or snort. The word describes the act of inhaling powdered tobacco or the action of extinguishing a candle.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'sniffing' ('snufa') to remember that 'snuff' refers to inhaling something, like powdered tobacco.

Visually Confused Words
suff
besnuff
stuff
sniff
snaff
shuff
scuff
Is this page helpful?
That makes sense; I guess it could be a unique way to unwind.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
inhale
sniff
breathe
Antonyms
exhale
disperse
release
Sounds interesting, but I'm not sure if I'd want to try it.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tobacco
powder
snuffle
Antonyms
exhale
breathe
release
Exactly, it feels like part of our childhood was snuffed away.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
extinguish
terminate
snuffout
Antonyms
ignite
start
kindle