Snip: meaning, definitions and examples

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snip

[snɪp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

cutting

A small piece that is snipped off, typically with scissors or shears.

Synonyms

clip, cut, trim.

Examples of usage

I need to snip off the loose thread on my shirt.
She gave a snip of her hair to the hairdresser.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

cutting

To cut something with scissors or shears, typically in a quick and precise manner.

Synonyms

clip, cut, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snip	Similar to 'snip,' refers to making small, quick cuts. The hairdresser snipped a bit off her bangs He snipped the price tag off the new shirt
clip	Often used when referring to trimming or cutting a small part off something quickly, also used in the context of attaching items together with a clip. He clipped a coupon out of the newspaper She used a paperclip to clip the documents together
trim	Used for making something tidy by cutting away irregular parts, often used for hair, plants, or lawns. She went to the salon to get her hair trimmed He spent the afternoon trimming the hedge
cut	A general term for making an incision or dividing something. Can be negative if referring to physical harm. She cut the cake into slices He accidentally cut his finger while chopping vegetables

Examples of usage

She snipped the coupon out of the magazine.
He snipped the wires to disconnect the alarm.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'snip' originates from the late 16th century, derived from the word 'snippin', which means to cut.
In Old English, a similar word 'sneap' meant to cut off, showing how long the term has been related to cutting.
There’s a connection to the sound made during cutting, reflecting how language can mimic actions.

Pop Culture

In fashion design, the term 'snip' is commonly used to describe the precise cuts made in fabric to create garments.
Television shows often use the term in dramatic scenes where a character 'snips' through tension, like cutting a rope or a relationship.
A famous quote from a popular film includes a character saying, 'Time to snip this one!' illustrating the decisive action of cutting.

Science

In biology, 'snip' can describe how researchers cut DNA strands to study genetic patterns and mutations.
In botanical studies, 'snipping' plants can encourage growth and is a method used in propagation.
The concept of 'snipping' also applies in veterinary medicine, describing the surgical removal of parts for health.

Literature

In various poems and stories, 'snip' is often used to depict sudden action, highlighting themes of change or transformation.
Famous authors have used 'snip' in their narratives to bring attention to pivotal moments, framing life-altering decisions.
Children's literature frequently employs playful uses of 'snip' to engage young readers, often portrayed in stories about craft projects.

Psychology

'Snipping' can symbolize the act of making quick decisions, often related to closely held beliefs or habits one might choose to change.
In therapy techniques, the concept of 'snipping' thoughts can be used to help clients cut out negative thinking patterns.
The pleasure response from making something shorter or more manageable can create a sense of accomplishment in creative activities.

Translations

Translations of the word "snip" in other languages:

🇵🇹 recortar

🇮🇳 काटना

🇩🇪 schneiden

🇮🇩 memotong

🇺🇦 обрізати

🇵🇱 ciąć

🇯🇵 切る (kiru)

🇫🇷 couper

🇪🇸 cortar

🇹🇷 kesmek

🇰🇷 자르다 (jareuda)

🇸🇦 قطع (qataʿa)

🇨🇿 stříhat

🇸🇰 strihanie

🇨🇳 剪 (jiǎn)

🇸🇮 rezati

🇮🇸 klippa

🇰🇿 кесу

🇬🇪 მოჭრა (mots'ra)

🇦🇿 kəsmək

🇲🇽 cortar

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,334, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
29331 cleat
29332 fixations
29333 crunchy
29334 snip
29335 wiki
29336 perpetrating
29337 freshening
...