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snaphance

noun
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snap·​hance
variants: or snaphaunce \ ˈsnapˌ han|(t)s , -​hän| \ or less commonly snaphaan \ |n \
plural -s

Definition of snaphance

1a : a primitive flintlock
b : an old-time musket having such a lock
2 obsolete : a snap catch or spring catch

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History and Etymology for snaphance

Dutch snaphaan highway man, snaphance (influenced in meaning by snappen to snap and haan hammer of a gun), from Middle Dutch snaphaen highwayman, from snappen to snap, snatch + haen cock; akin to Old High German hani cock

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Dictionary Entries Near snaphance

snap gage

snaphance

snaphead

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Cite this Entry

“Snaphance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/snaphance. Accessed 28 Jun. 2022.

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