nose

²nose

verb

nosednos·ing

Definition of NOSE

transitive verb

1

: to detect by or as if by smell : scent

2

a : to push or move with the nose b : to move (as a vehicle) ahead slowly or cautiously <nosed my car into the parking space>

3

: to touch or rub with the nose : nuzzle

intransitive verb

1

: to use the nose in examining, smelling, or showing affection

2

a : to search impertinently : pry b : poke 2a

3

: to move ahead slowly or cautiously <the boat nosed around the bend>

4

: to move the forward end in a specified direction <the plane nosed up>

5

: to advance into a slight lead

Examples of NOSE

1. The horse nosed my hand.
2. Some animal must have nosed the lid off the garbage can.
3. The dog nosed the door open.
4. The dogs were nosing around in the garbage.
5. The boat nosed around the bend.
6. I nosed my car into the parking space.
7. The car nosed its way into the street.

First Known Use of NOSE

circa 1587

Related to NOSE

Synonyms: smell, scent, sniff, snuff, whiff

Antonyms: fly, race, speed, whiz (or whizz), zip

Related Words: breathe, drink (in), inhale, respire; snort, snuffle; savor (also savour)

Near Antonyms: avoid, eschew, shun; disregard, ignore, neglect, overlook

see all synonyms and antonyms

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