Main Entry: ¹snap

Pronunciation: \ˈsnap\

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): snapped; snap·ping

Etymology: Dutch or Low German snappen; akin to Middle High German snappen to snap

Date: 1530

intransitive verb 1 a : to make a sudden closing of the jaws : seize something sharply with the mouth <fish snapping at the bait> b : to grasp at something eagerly : make a pounce or snatch <snap at any chance>
2 : to utter sharp biting words : bark out irritable or peevish retorts
3 a : to break suddenly with a sharp sound <the twig snapped> b : to give way suddenly under strain
4 : to make a sharp or crackling sound
5 : to close or fit in place with an abrupt movement or sharp sound <the lock snapped shut>
6 a : to move briskly or sharply <snaps to attention> b : to undergo a sudden and rapid change (as from one condition to another) <snap out of it> <snapped awake>
7 : sparkle, flash <eyes snapping with fury>transitive verb 1 : to seize with or as if with a snap of the jaws
2 : to take possession or advantage of suddenly or eagerly —usually used with up <shoppers snapping up bargains>
3 a : to retort to or interrupt curtly and irritably b : to utter curtly or abruptly
4 : to break suddenly : break short or in two
5 a : to cause to make a snapping sound <snap a whip> b : to put into or remove from a particular position by a sudden movement or with a sharp sound <snap the lock shut>
6 a : to project with a snap b : to put (a football) in play with a snap c (1) : to take photographically <snapping exclusive news pictures — Current Biography> (2) : to take a snapshot of