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snafu

noun sna·fu \ sna-ˈfü , ˈsna-ˌfü \
|Updated on: 15 Jun 2018

Definition of snafu

: a situation marked by errors or confusion : muddle; also : an error causing such a situation
  • a scheduling snafu

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Recent Examples of snafu from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'snafu.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of snafu

situation normal all fucked up (fouled up)

2

snafu

adjective

Definition of snafu

: snarled or stalled in confusion : awry

First Known Use of snafu

1942

in the meaning defined above

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3

snafu

verb

Definition of snafu

snafued; snafuing; snafus
transitive verb
: to bring into a state of confusion

First Known Use of snafu

1943

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year
NEW! Time Traveler

SNAFU Defined for English Language Learners

snafu

noun

Definition of snafu for English Language Learners

  • : a problem that makes a situation difficult or confusing

Learn More about snafu

  1. See words that rhyme with snafu

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