Synonyms of whiff

whiff 1 of 2

noun

ˈ(h)wif 

as in hint

an almost imperceptible sign of something

even a whiff of appreciation for everything I've done for her would have been nice

Synonyms & Similar Words

• hint
• glimmer
• flicker
• touch
• breath
• suggestion
• trace
• scent
• sign
• tang
• evidence
• wind
• inkling
• indication
• intimation
• mark

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• saturation
• permeation
• pervasion

whiff

2 of 2

verb

as in to smell

to become aware of by means of the sense organs in the nose

whiffed the pot of chili on the stove and announced that he was staying for dinner

Synonyms & Similar Words

• smell
• sniff
• inhale
• scent
• snuff
• nose
• drink (in)
• breathe
• snort
• savor
• respire
• snuffle

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of whiff

Noun

There is plenty of strikeout in his game, but the power may be worth the whiffs. — Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

Whereas the sights and sounds of South End lean toward bar crowds and joggers traversing the Rail Trail, SouthPark is more about catching a whiff of Le Labo and seeing couples settle in at a corner table with glasses of Cabernet and small plates. — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 29 June 2026

Verb

Jordan’s star player Mousa Al-Tamari whiffed on a crossing attempt, but the ball went right to midfielder Nizar Al-Rashdan, who hit the shot with the outside of his right foot. — Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 23 June 2026

Posey, meanwhile, whiffed on the franchise-changing Devers trade. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026