snag

play

noun \ˈsnag\

Definition of snag

1a : a tree or branch embedded in a lake or stream bed and constituting a hazard to navigationb : a standing dead tree
2 : a rough sharp or jagged projecting part : protuberance: such asa : a projecting tooth; also : a stump of a toothb : one of the secondary branches of an antler
3 : a concealed or unexpected difficulty or obstacle
4a : a jagged tear made by or as if by catching on a snagb : an irregularity that suggests the result of tearing; especially : a pulled thread in fabric a snag in her stocking

snaggy

play \ˈsna-gē\ adjective

See snag defined for English-language learners

See snag defined for kids

Examples of snag in a Sentence

I caught my sleeve on a snag and tore it.
My sweater has a snag where I caught it on a nail.

Origin and Etymology of snag

perhaps of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse snagi clothes peg

NEW!

First Known Use: circa 1587

See Words from the same year

snag

verb

Definition of snag

snagged

;

snagging

transitive verb
1a : to catch and usually damage on or as if on a snagb : to halt or impede as if by catching on a snag
2 : to hew, trim, or cut roughly or jaggedly
3 : to clear (something, such as a river) of snags
4 : to catch or obtain usually by quick action or good fortune

See snag defined for English-language learners

Examples of snag in a Sentence

I snagged my favorite sweater on a nail.
The shortstop snagged the grounder.
The police snagged the suspect as he was trying to run away.
I managed to snag the information I needed from the Internet.
Can I snag a ride from you?

First Known Use of snag

1807

SNAG Defined for English Language Learners

snag

play

noun

Definition of snag for English Language Learners

: an unexpected problem or difficulty
: a sharp or broken part of something that sticks out from a smooth surface
: a thread that sticks out from a piece of cloth

snag

verb

Definition of snag for English Language Learners

: to catch and tear (something) on something sharp
: to catch, capture, or get (something or someone) by quick action or good luck

SNAG Defined for Kids

snag

play

noun \ˈsnag\

Definition of snag for Students

1 : a rough or broken part sticking out from something
2 : an unexpected difficulty Our plan hit a snag.
3 : a stump or stub of a tree branch especially when hidden under water

snag

play

verb

Definition of snag for Students

snagged

;

snagging

1 : to catch or damage on or as if on a part sticking up or out He snagged his sleeve on a nail.
2 : to catch or capture by or as if by reaching out quickly and grabbing I was snagged by the teacher on my way out.