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Snap: meaning, definitions and examples

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snap

 

[snæp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

social media

Send (someone) a picture or message with Snapchat

Examples of usage

  • I'll snap you the picture now.
  • She snapped me a funny video.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A sudden, sharp cracking sound or movement

Synonyms

click, crack, pop.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
snap

Usually refers to a short, sharp sound like when breaking a small stick or closing a container. Often used in both literal and figurative contexts.

  • She heard a branch snap under her foot
  • He snapped his fingers to get everyone's attention
  • In a snap, she solved the puzzle
crack

Describes a sudden, loud noise like wood breaking or fireworks. Often used to convey a sense of something splitting or breaking with force.

  • The log cracked in the fire
  • He gave a loud crack of his knuckles
  • The ice cracked under their weight
pop

A quick, sharp sound like the bursting of a small object. Commonly associated with bubbles, balloons, or small explosions.

  • The bubble popped as it reached the surface
  • She heard a pop when the cork came out of the bottle
  • The firecrackers popped loudly
click

A short, light sound often associated with pressing a button, turning a switch, or moving a part. Frequently used in technical or digital contexts.

  • The door closed with a click
  • She clicked the mouse to open the file
  • He felt a click in his knee when he stood up

Examples of usage

  • The snap of a twig alerted the hiker to someone's presence.
  • There was a loud snap as the branch broke under the weight.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'snap' originated from the Middle English word 'snappen', meaning to catch or seize quickly.
  • In the 19th century, the word was used to describe the action of breaking something suddenly.

Photography

  • The phrase 'snap a photo' became popular as cameras transitioned from large, complex devices to compact, user-friendly models.
  • Taking a snapshot revolutionized how memories were captured, making photography accessible to the masses.

Cultural References

  • In popular culture, 'snap' often signifies quick reactions, as seen in viral social media challenges.
  • The phrase 'snap your fingers' is often associated with quick decision-making or calling for someone’s attention.

Science

  • In physics, a snap can refer to the rapid release of energy, such as when a rubber band is let go.
  • The sound of a snap can be explained by the sudden release of pressure and the vibrations it causes in the air.

Psychology

  • The action of snapping can represent an immediate reaction, often linked with impulse and decision-making.
  • Research indicates that the sound of snapping may trigger attention and alertness, making it significant in social interactions.

Translations

Translations of the word "snap" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estalo

🇮🇳 चटक

🇩🇪 Schnappen

🇮🇩 jepret

🇺🇦 клацання

🇵🇱 trzask

🇯🇵 パチン

🇫🇷 craquement

🇪🇸 chasquido

🇹🇷 şak

🇰🇷 찰칵

🇸🇦 طقطقة

🇨🇿 cvaknutí

🇸🇰 cvaknutie

🇨🇳 咔嚓

🇸🇮 pok

🇮🇸 smellur

🇰🇿 шақылдау

🇬🇪 კლაკი

🇦🇿 çatırtı

🇲🇽 chasquido

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,649 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.