Snatcher Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snatcher

[ˈsnætʃər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

crime

A person who steals something quickly and often violently

Synonyms

burglar, robber, thief.

Examples of usage

  • The snatcher grabbed her purse and ran away.
  • Be careful of snatchers in crowded places.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

A player who quickly takes the ball from the opponent

Synonyms

interceptor, stealer.

Examples of usage

  • He's known as the best snatcher in the team.
  • The snatcher intercepted the pass and scored a goal.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In films and television, 'snatchers' often depict characters who steal for selfish reasons, creating tension and drama.
  • Popular video games feature snatcher characters who must be caught before they take important items, emphasizing quick reflexes.

Law and Crime

  • The term is often associated with petty theft, particularly in urban areas where quick thefts like snatching purses can occur.
  • Law enforcement uses the term 'snatcher' to describe suspects in quick theft cases, focusing on their speed and stealth.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people who snatch may feel a thrill from the act, driven by adrenaline and the risk of getting caught.
  • The motivations behind snatching often include impulse control issues, suggesting a psychological component in some cases.

Literature

  • Literature often portrays snatchers as anti-heroes, raising questions about morality and desperation.
  • In classic novels, characters known as snatchers highlight societal issues like poverty and crime, sparking debates among readers.

Origin of 'snatcher'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'snatcher' originated from the verb 'snatch', which comes from Middle English 'snacchen', meaning to seize or grab.
  • In Old French, a similar word 'esnacher' means to take away or seize, showing the action of quickly grabbing.

The word 'snatcher' originated from the verb 'snatch', which dates back to the mid-16th century. It is derived from Middle English 'snacchen' and Old Norse 'snakka'. Originally used in the context of grabbing or seizing something suddenly, it later evolved to describe a person who steals or intercepts quickly.


See also: snatch, snatching.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,821, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.