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 verb1 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 retorts3 a: to break suddenly with a sharp sound <the twig snapped> b: to give way suddenly under strain4: to make a sharp or crackling sound5: 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 verb1: to seize with or as if with a snap of the jaws2: 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 abruptly4: to break suddenly : break short or in two5 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