c. 1600, "one who or that which snorts," agent noun from snort (v.). The U.S. slang meaning "something large of its kind" is by 1833. Also "high wind, gale" (1855).
Entries linking to snorter
snort v.
early 15c, snorten, earlier fnorten (late 14c.), "breathe heavily, expel air through the nose with a harsh sound, make the sound of a horse," probably related to snore (v.) or like it imitative of the sound made. The sense of "express contempt" is from 1818. The meaning "inhale cocaine" is attested by 1935. Related: Snorted; snorting.
ripsnorter n.
"something of exceptional strength, someone of remarkable qualities," 1840 [Davy Crockett], probably from rip (v.) + snorter (q.v.). Compare riproaring.