Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1930
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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.
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"Snaffle v., n.". Dictionary of the Scots Language. 2004. Scottish Language Dictionaries Ltd. Accessed 17 May 2026 <http://www.dsl.ac.uk/entry/snd/snaffle>
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