snigger
/'snigə/
Definition
Noun:
- A disrespectful or suppressed laugh: A "snigger" is a quiet, often muffled laugh that expresses scorn, mockery, or amusement at someone else's expense. It is typically considered impolite or unkind.
Verb:
- To laugh quietly in a disrespectful way: To "snigger" means to laugh in a stifled, often sly manner, usually at something considered embarrassing or inappropriate, or to show derision towards someone.
Usage Examples
Noun:
- His joke was met with a few sniggers from the back of the classroom.
- She tried to hide her snigger behind her hand when he tripped.
Verb:
- The children sniggered at the teacher's mistake.
- It's rude to snigger at someone's misfortune.
Advanced Usage
"to snigger at": This is the most common construction, meaning to laugh disrespectfully at someone or something.
- The audience sniggered at the actor's forgotten lines.
Connotation: A snigger often implies a sense of shared, secretive mockery among a group. It is more negative than a simple giggle or chuckle.
Variants and Related Words
- Snicker: This is a very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "snigger." Some consider "snicker" to be slightly less malicious, but the difference is subtle.
- He gave a quick snicker before composing himself.
Synonyms
- Giggle: To laugh lightly in a nervous or silly way. (Less negative than snigger).
- Chuckle: To laugh quietly or inwardly. (Generally positive or neutral).
- Titter: To laugh nervously or in a restrained way. (Can be similar to snigger but often from embarrassment rather than mockery).
Phrasal Verbs / Common Constructions
- Snigger about: To laugh quietly and disrespectfully concerning a particular topic or person.
- They were sniggering about the boss's new haircut after the meeting.
Related Idioms
- To be the subject of sniggers: To be laughed at in a mocking, quiet way.
- His outdated fashion sense made him the subject of sniggers among his colleagues.
Noun
-
a disrespectful laugh
Verb
-
laugh quietly
