# whiff

/ˈhwɪf/ (US) · /wˈɪf/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/whiff
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a slight smell of something that you notice for a short time. It can also mean a small hint or sign of a situation or feeling.

For teachers: a brief, faint odour carried on the wind; figuratively, a slight trace or suggestion of a quality or situation. Often used with 'of' to indicate the source of the scent or the nature of the hint.

## Examples

- I caught a whiff of fresh coffee as I walked past the kitchen.
- The sudden resignation of the CFO gave the investors a slight whiff of a coming scandal.
- As the hikers reached the crest of the hill, a sudden whiff of pine needles and damp earth signaled their proximity to the hidden valley.

## Usage notes

- Commonly pairs with the preposition 'of' followed by a noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.