snuff out

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To extinguish (literally, especially by physically covering or rubbing); to extinguish (figuratively): to stop (a process), to kill (a process).

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

Near-synonym: smother

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 kill a living being.

Register: slang

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To die.

Register: slang

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “snuff out” mean?

To extinguish (literally, especially by physically covering or rubbing); to extinguish (figuratively): to stop (a process), to kill (a process).

Is “snuff out” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.