sniff out
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To find (something) by using the sense of smell.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
Because they have far more powerful noses than humans, dogs are ideal to sniff out drugs.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To detect (something hidden or invisible).
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “sniff out” mean?
To find (something) by using the sense of smell.
Is “sniff out” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.