(transitive, adverb) to detect through shrewdness or instinct
Slang definitions & phrases for sniff out
sniff out
verb phrase
To seek as if by following a scent: Mike hopes his kids may sniff out something faster than the police(1940s+)
Idioms and Phrases with sniff out
sniff out
Uncover, as If there's anything to that rumor, Gladys will sniff it out. This expression alludes to an animal sniffing for prey. [ First half of 1900s ]