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Snooker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snooker

[ˈsnuːkər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

sporting game

Snooker is a cue sport that is played on a rectangular table covered with green cloth. The game involves using a long cue stick to strike balls, including a white cue ball and 15 red balls, to score points by potting them in designated pockets. Snooker is played by two players or two teams, and the objective is to score more points than the opponent by potting the balls in a specific order. The game is known for its strategic and tactical nature, requiring skillful shot-making and careful planning.

Synonyms

billiards, cue sport.

Examples of usage

  • He spent the afternoon playing snooker with his friends.
  • The world championship in snooker attracts thousands of fans every year.
  • She practiced her snooker skills at the local club.
  • Many professional players compete in international snooker tournaments.

Translations

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Origin of 'snooker'

The word 'snooker' originated in the late 19th century, around 1875, and is attributed to the British Army officer Neville Chamberlain, who coined the term while playing a related game in India. The game was an evolution of billiards and was formalized with established rules. Originally used as a slang term to describe inexperienced players, 'snooker' became the title of the game as it developed its own identity. The first official snooker tournament was held in 1882, and the game gained popularity rapidly, particularly in the United Kingdom. Its appeal continued to grow throughout the 20th century, leading to the establishment of worldwide competitions and professional leagues, solidifying snooker's place as a recognized sport.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,060, 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.