Definition of snuff

The word "snuff" originally referred to a medicinal powder that was used to alleviate various ailments, such as headaches, colds, and fevers. This medicinal powder was commonly made from various plants, including tobacco, and was administered through the nostrils. The term "snuff" is thought to originate from the Old Norse word "snufra" or "snöprep," which means "sniff powder," as it refers to the action of inhaling the powder through the nose. The use of snuff as a medicinal and recreational substance became popular in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, and it remained fashionable until the 19th century when concerns over its health hazards led to its decline in popularity. Today, the word "snuff" is mostly associated with the dried, light brown leaves of the tobacco plant that are rubbed into a fine powder and inhaled for recreational purposes. However, its origins as a medicinal substance continue to be honored in the tradition of nasal administration.