Snivel/ˈsnɪvl/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Negative Emotion Use 'snivel' to express disdain for someone's complaints perceived as minor or weak. He always snivels over the chores he has to do. Pro Tip 2/3Informal Usage 'Snivel' is informal and may sound rude or insensitive if used in serious discussions. She told her brother to stop sniveling about missing the party. Pro Tip 3/3Not for Sickness Do not confuse 'snivel' as a verb with having a cold; it's about complaining, not sneezing. He's not really sick, just sniveling for attention.