Synonyms of whiffing

whiffing

verb

present participle of whiff

as in sniffing

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

• sniffing
• smelling
• inhaling
• snuffing
• breathing
• drinking (in)
• nosing
• snorting
• scenting
• savoring
• respiring
• snuffling

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of whiffing

After whiffing nine batters in his first start of the season, the UTSA transfer has now collected double-digit strikeouts in three consecutive outings. —David Eckert, Austin American Statesman, 6 Mar. 2026

Also of note is that Harper struck out three times, including whiffing twice against Toronto starter Dylan Cease — though neither of those pitches was outside the zone. —Charlotte Varnes, New York Times, 3 Mar. 2026

Johnson’s been whiffing on the open stuff in a make-or-miss league. —Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 2 Mar. 2026

This is still like the administration whiffing on the Epstein files. —NBC news, 21 Dec. 2025

The Houston Astros are in a tough spot after whiffing on the postseason last season. —Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2025

And after whiffing on Mazi Smith in the first round in 2023, grabbing a defensive tackle like Walter Nolen also presented some intrigue. —Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 Dec. 2025

Instead, after whiffing on Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley and Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin, the Pats pushed all their chips in to land him. —Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 26 Sep. 2025

But Treinen snuffed out the rally by whiffing Adames looking at a full-count 96 mph sinker that nicked the outside corner and Matt Chapman swinging at an 85 mph sweeper that was way outside. —Mike Digiovanna, Oc Register, 19 Sep. 2025