Quick answer
Snifter means a small drink of alcohol, or the rounded glass used for brandy. It is usually pronounced SNIF-ter, and today it is still readable to modern audiences, even if it sounds more deliberate than everyday speech.
Word page
Snifter
Snifter means a small drink of alcohol, or the rounded glass used for brandy. It belongs to dramatic and overblown words and works best in heightened narration, theatrical criticism, and writing that enjoys a bit of flourish. It still feels usable today, especially when you want a word with more character than the plainest alternative.
At a glance
dramaticoverblowntheatrical
How to say it
Meaning in plain English
In plain English, snifter refers to a small drink of alcohol, or the rounded glass used for brandy. It is most useful when a plain label would tell the truth but miss the tone, flavor, or comic edge.
Why this word feels absurd
Snifter feels absurd because it has more texture than the plain alternative, giving the idea an extra bit of theatrical, comic, or overbuilt energy.
Origin and history
The origin note most often attached to snifter is: from sniff or snift, probably linked to smelling or sipping. Where the history is not fully settled, the safest thing to say is that the word’s sound and tone have helped keep it memorable.
Is this word still used today?
Snifter is still usable today, especially when you want language that feels more distinctive than the plainest modern alternative.
Example sentences
- He poured a small snifter of brandy after dinner.
- The bartender polished the snifter before setting it on the counter.
- A quiet snifter by the fire was his picture of winter comfort.
- Collectors argue about which shape makes the ideal snifter glass.
When should you use this word?
Use snifter when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in heightened narration, theatrical criticism, and writing that enjoys a bit of flourish.
Similar words
dram, nip, brandy glass, small drink
Opposite or contrasting words
teetotal drink, full pint
Common questions
- What does snifter mean? A small drink of alcohol, or the rounded glass used for brandy.
- How do you pronounce snifter? It is commonly pronounced SNIF-ter.
- Is snifter still used today? Snifter is still usable today, especially when you want language that feels more distinctive than the plainest modern alternative.
- When should you use snifter? Use snifter when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in heightened narration, theatrical criticism, and writing that enjoys a bit of flourish.
- What words are similar to snifter? Similar words include dram, nip, brandy glass, and small drink.
Editorial note
Edited by Absurd Words. Last updated: May 9, 2026. See the editorial policy for how definitions, examples, labels, and update checks are handled on the site.