Snuff

Pronunciation: /snʌf/

Definitions of snuff

noun a preparation of pulverized tobacco that is inhaled through the nostrils or chewed

Example Sentences

A1 I don't like the smell of snuff.

A2 He carries a small tin of snuff in his pocket.

B1 Some people believe that snuff can help with congestion.

B2 The use of snuff has decreased in recent years due to health concerns.

C1 Historically, snuff was a popular form of tobacco consumption among the upper class.

C2 There are different types of snuff available, including moist and dry varieties.

Examples of snuff in a Sentence

formal The detective found a snuff box at the crime scene.

informal I can't believe he tried to snuff out the candle with his fingers.

slang She's always trying to snuff out my plans.

figurative The new policy could snuff out any chance of success for the project.

Grammatical Forms of snuff

• past tense: snuffed
• plural: snuffs
• comparative: snuffer
• superlative: most snuff
• present tense: snuff
• future tense: will snuff
• perfect tense: have snuffed
• continuous tense: is snuffing
• singular: snuff
• positive degree: snuff
• infinitive: to snuff
• gerund: snuffing
• participle: snuffed

Origin and Evolution of snuff

First Known Use: 1681 year

Language of Origin: Dutch

Story behind the word: The word 'snuff' originated from the Dutch word 'snuffen', which means to sniff or snuff out. It was used in reference to inhaling powdered tobacco through the nose.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'snuff' evolved to also refer to powdered tobacco itself, as well as to the act of extinguishing a flame by pinching it between the fingers. In modern usage, 'snuff' can also mean to kill someone, especially in a cold-blooded manner.