snafu

1 of 3

noun

sna·​fu sna-ˈfü 

ˈsna-ˌfü

: a situation marked by errors or confusion : muddle

also : an error causing such a situation

a scheduling snafu

snafu

2 of 3

adjective

: snarled or stalled in confusion : awry

snafu

3 of 3

verb

snafued; snafuing; snafus

transitive verb

: to bring into a state of confusion

Examples of snafu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Although candidates for Florida office regularly run afoul of the rules, Stark’s situation is an extraordinary snafu involving a political incumbent. — Jeffrey Schweers, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 July 2026

The program has also been criticized for some of its editorial decisions and logistical snafus. — Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026

While a snafu at the 2016 Oscars saw Moonlight achieve a very different kind of notoriety, the film remains widely regarded as the year’s indisputable best picture. — Liam Hess, Vogue, 28 June 2026

There was a bit of a royal snafu this week, which was later called out on social media. — Staff Author, InStyle, 23 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

situation normal all fucked up (fouled up)

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1941, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1942, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1943, in the meaning defined above