IPA: /snʌf/
KK: /snʌf/
Describing something that shows real violence or murder in a shocking way.
The film was criticized for its snuff elements, which depicted actual killings.
To inhale through the nose, often to smell something or to take in powdered tobacco.
He decided to snuff the tobacco to enjoy its rich flavor.
Past: snuffed
Past Participle: snuffed
A powdery substance, often tobacco, that is inhaled through the nose.
He took a pinch of snuff before the performance.
To kill or extinguish something, such as a candle or a life.
The firefighters quickly snuffed the flames before they spread.
Past: snuffed
Past Participle: snuffed
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.
Think of the action of 'sniffing' ('snufa') to remember that 'snuff' refers to inhaling something, like powdered tobacco.