snapper

noun

snap·​per ˈsna-pər 

plural snappers

1

: one that snaps: such as

a

: something (such as a remark) that gives new orientation to a situation or utterance

b(1)

: snapping turtle

(2)

: click beetle

2

plural also snapper

a

: any of numerous active carnivorous fishes (family Lutjanidae) of warm seas important as food and often as sport fishes

b

: any of several immature fishes (such as the young of the bluefish) that resemble a snapper

Examples of snapper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In lieu of a paw, the story turns on a novelty item called a One Wish Willow, which, when snapped in two, grants the snapper any one thing their heart desires. —Justin Chang, New Yorker, 31 May 2026

These can include redfish, king mackerel, grouper, snapper, tarpon and more, providing a mix of inshore and offshore fishing opportunities. —Lexi Lane, PEOPLE, 30 May 2026

According to Valera, a great Ceviche balances the umami of Florida seafood, like grouper, mahi-mahi, or Florida yellowtail snapper; with citrus and a touch of spiciness. —Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 30 May 2026

From rich, meaty cuts like swordfish and salmon to more delicate fillets like snapper and flounder, fish thrives over high heat—developing a smoky char while staying tender and flaky inside. —Phoebe Fry, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing snapper

• alligator snapper
• red snapper
• snapper-back

Rhymes for snapper

• capper
• clapper
• dapper
• flapper
• kapur
• mapper
• napper
• rapper
• sapper
• tapper
• trapper
• wrapper

Kids Definition

snapper

noun

snap·​per ˈsnap-ər 

plural snappers

1

a

: something that snaps

b

: snapping turtle

2

plural also snapper

a

: any of a large family of active flesh-eating fishes of warm seas that are important as food and sport fishes

b

: any of several immature fishes (as the young of the bluefish) that resemble a snapper