Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Snap Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

📸
Add to dictionary

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?

arrow down
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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'snap'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'snap' has a long history dating back to Old Norse and Old English, where it originally meant to seize or grasp. Over time, it evolved to also refer to a sudden, sharp sound or movement. In recent years, with the rise of social media, 'snap' gained a new meaning with the introduction of Snapchat, a popular messaging app known for its disappearing photo and video messages.

See also: snapper, snappiness, snapping, snappishly, snaps, snapshot.

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.