Definition of the word snicker

The origin of the word "snicker" is uncertain and there are several theories surrounding its etymology. One possibility is that the word derives from the Old English "${nican}", which means "to laugh loudly". This theory suggests that "snicker" is a modern-day version of the Old English word, with the sound "c" becoming "k" in the Middle English period, and then evolving into "ck" and eventually "cker" before shortening to "snicker". Another theory suggests that "snicker" comes from the German word "zinkschnarren", which literally translates to "to tinkle like a zinc pot". This theory proposes that the word made its way into English via the Low German dialect, which was commonly spoken in areas of the Netherlands and Germany that border modern-day England. Lastly, some experts believe that "snicker" is a combination of the words "snort" and "giggle", reflecting the distinctive laugh that is often associated with being amused. Regardless of its origin, the word "snicker" has been used to describe a quiet laugh or snicker since at least the early 19th century, as evidenced by its appearance in literature and historical records from that time.