as in looking down (on or upon)
to show contempt for
her carpentry skills are nothing to sniff at
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sniffing (at)
Verb
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Can’t Arabs celebrate their heritage without being accused of hating Jews?—
Laura Einhorn,
Mercury News,
27 Mar. 2026 -
People can relate to hating gym class, disagreements with siblings or a first breakup.—
Bebe Hodges,
Cincinnati Enquirer,
18 Mar. 2026
Verb
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The guard then went to Ada’s table and — according to the girl’s parents — spoke to Ada and her mother aggressively about disrespecting and harassing people.—
Lisa Gutierrez,
Kansas City Star,
26 Mar. 2026
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On Saturday, Jorginho posted a lengthy Instagram Story, claiming that Roan’s security team was extremely aggressive toward his family for walking past her table and shaming her for disrespecting her fans, especially a child.—
Alejandra Gularte,
Vulture,
24 Mar. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Sniffing (at).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sniffing%20%28at%29. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
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