ˈsnarley-yowNaut. [After the name of the dog in Marryat's novel Snarleyyow, or the Dog-Fiend (1837).] (See quot.) 1867Smyth Sailor's Word-bk., Snarley-yow, a discontented, litigious grumbler. An old guard-ship authority who knows when to play the courtier.