Pronunciation: [snˈɪvəlɪŋ] (IPA) 
Snivelling is a British English spelling of the word with the root word "snivel." The IPA phonetic transcription for the word is /ˈsnɪvəlɪŋ/. The letters 'i' and 'e' in the word represent the short vowel sounds /ɪ/ and /ɛ/ respectively. The final syllable '-ing' is pronounced as /ɪŋ/. Snivelling is often used to describe someone who is crying or whimpering in a weak or self-pitying manner.
Snivelling is an adjective that is used to describe someone or their behavior when they are whining, complaining or generally behaving in a pitiful or self-pitying manner. It typically refers to someone who is overly emotional and inclined to cry or get upset easily, often in situations where such emotions may not be warranted.
The term snivelling implies a sense of annoyance or disdain towards someone who is seen as weak or lacking in resilience. It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the person's behavior is seen as annoying, pathetic or insincere. Snivelling individuals are often perceived as attention-seeking, attempting to gain sympathy or favor from others through their excessively emotional or manipulative behavior.
The term can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is weak or unimpressive. For instance, a snivelling excuse may refer to a feeble excuse or explanation given by someone who is trying to avoid taking responsibility for their actions.
The word snivelling has its origins in the Middle English word "snivelen," which means to "sniffle" or "snuffle." This reflects the whining or sniffling sounds that may accompany someone's self-pitying or tearful behavior. Overall, the term snivelling serves to define someone exhibiting a combination of emotional fragility, self-pity, and an excessive display of tears or complaints.
• Running at the nose; crying; lamenting.
• A crying, as of children, with snuffling or whining.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "snivelling" comes from the Middle English term "snivelen", which originated from the Old English word "snyflan". In Old English, "snyflan" meant "to run at the nose" or "to blow one's nose". It is believed to be derived from the Proto-Germanic word "snif-", which is designed to imitate the sound of sniffing or sniffling. Over time, "snivelling" evolved to mean someone who is whining or complaining in a weak or self-pitying manner, typically accompanied by sniffling or tearfulness.
