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Sniper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sniper

[ˈsnaɪpər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military

A skilled military personnel who specializes in shooting accurately from a long distance.

Synonyms

gunman, marksman, sharpshooter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sniper

Refers to a highly skilled individual, often in a military or law enforcement context, trained to shoot targets from long distances with precision. It can have both neutral and negative connotations.

  • The sniper positioned himself on the rooftop, waiting for the target.
  • She was known as one of the best snipers in the military.
marksman

Refers to a person skilled in shooting accurately at a target, often in a recreational or competitive shooting context, but it can also apply to military or law enforcement. Usually neutral or positive in connotation.

  • He prided himself on being a marksman in the local shooting club.
  • His marksmanship earned him a position on the special forces team.
sharpshooter

Describes a person skilled in shooting, often used interchangeably with marksman but can sometimes imply a higher level of skill or specialization. It has a neutral or positive connotation.

  • The sheriff was known as the best sharpshooter in town.
  • During the competition, she proved herself to be a true sharpshooter.
gunman

Often used to describe someone who carries and uses a gun, typically in a criminal or violent context. It usually has a negative connotation.

  • The gunman entered the bank, demanding money from the tellers.
  • Several witnesses reported seeing the gunman flee the scene.

Examples of usage

  • The sniper took out the enemy target from 500 meters away.
  • The sniper remained hidden while observing the enemy movements.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A person who shoots at people from a hidden place.

Synonyms

assassin, gunman, hitman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sniper

This entry is a repetition and should have the same meaning as the first one listed.

  • The sniper is known for his ability to remain unseen for hours.
  • He earned a reputation as a skilled sniper during his military service.
assassin

Refers to a person hired to kill someone, usually a significant public figure or leader, often for political or ideological reasons. This term carries a sense of premeditated killing.

  • The assassin was sent to eliminate the political leader.
  • Historians have studied the motives behind the assassin's actions.
hitman

Describes a person who is paid to kill specific individuals, usually in the context of organized crime or gang activity. This term also has a negative connotation.

  • The mafia hired a hitman to take care of their enemies.
  • Rumors spread about a hitman being in town for a high-profile job.
gunman

Generally describes a person who uses a gun to commit violent crimes, such as robbery or murder. This term has a negative connotation and is often used in news reports.

  • The gunman entered the bank and demanded money from the tellers.
  • Police are on the lookout for the gunman suspected in the recent shootings.

Examples of usage

  • The sniper was positioned on the rooftop, ready to take the shot.
  • The police were trying to locate the sniper in the crowded area.

Translations

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

Origin of 'sniper'

The term 'sniper' originated in the 18th century, derived from the verb 'snipe' which means to shoot at individuals from a concealed position. Snipers have been used in various military operations throughout history, gaining recognition for their precision and strategic importance.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,819, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.