Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

SNAFFLE, v., n.

I. v. 1. As in Eng., now chiefly dial., to snuffle, speak through the nose. Used fig. in ppl.adj. snafflin, mean, paltry, piffling (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B., Rxb. 1970). Also in n.Eng. dial.

2. To sob, to snivel (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.).

II. n. A term of contempt for a creeping, insidious rascal, a low petty villain (Uls. c.1840 W. Lutton Montiaghisms (1924)), a weak ineffective creature (Lnk., Dmf. 1970). Also in n.Eng. dial. Carlyle uses Snaffle as a nickname.Kcb. 1930:
An unco like snaffle.