The word "snuffler" is spelled as S-N-U-F-F-L-E-R, and its pronunciation is /ˈsnʌflə(r)/. This word refers to someone who snuffles, i.e. breathes with noise through their nose, especially because of a cold or crying. The three consonants "N-F-L" in the middle of the word can be challenging to spell for non-native English speakers due to the cluster of sounds that don't often appear together in other languages. However, with practice, the spelling "snuffler" can be mastered.
A snuffler is a noun that refers to an individual, usually an animal, with a remarkable ability to detect or hunt by scent. Derived from the verb "snuffle," which means to sniff or snort loudly, a snuffler is known for possessing a keen sense of smell and often uses it to locate food, prey, or substances of interest.
In the animal kingdom, a snuffler commonly pertains to species such as dogs, pigs, or hounds that are particularly skilled in tracking and detecting scents. Dogs, for instance, are often trained to be snufflers, assisting law enforcement in detecting drugs, explosives, or missing individuals. Similarly, pigs are known to be excellent snufflers, often utilized in hunting for truffles, a valuable and highly aromatic type of fungi found underground.
Beyond the animal world, a snuffler can also describe a person who exhibits a strong olfactory sense, reminiscent of a bloodhound's acute tracking ability. Such individuals can effortlessly distinguish and identify various scents, often aiding them in perceiving their surroundings or finding elusive odors. Moreover, the term might be used in a metaphorical sense to describe individuals who possess a curious or nosy nature, using their sense of smell figuratively to uncover secrets or hidden information.
Overall, a snuffler embodies an entity that relies heavily on its sense of smell, whether it be animals with a specialized olfactory system or humans with an exceptional ability to detect, discern, or search for scents.
One who snuffles.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "snuffler" is derived from the verb "snuffle", which in turn is believed to come from the Middle Dutch word "snuffelen" meaning "to sniff". The Dutch word ultimately has roots in the Old High German word "snufalon" meaning "to snort" or "to sniff". The term "snuffler" typically refers to a person or animal who sniffs or snuffles audibly.