n.
Pronunciation: ' snap
Function: verb
Inflected Form: snapped ; snap · ping
Etymology: Dutch or Low German snappen; akin to Middle High German snappen to snap
Date: 1530
intransitive verb
1 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 retorts
3 a : to break suddenly with a sharp sound <the twig snapped > b : to give way suddenly under strain
4 : to make a sharp or crackling sound
5 : to close or fit in place with an abrupt movement or sharp sound <the lock snapped shut>
6 a : to move briskly or sharply < snap s 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 verb
1 : to seize with or as if with a snap of the jaws
2 : 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 abruptly
4 : to break suddenly : break short or in two
5 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 Biog. > (2) : to take a snapshot of