Snub Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snub

[snÊŒb ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

social interaction

To ignore or reject someone in a disdainful or contemptuous manner.

Synonyms

disregard, ignore, reject, spurn.

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Word Description / Examples
snub

Used when you show someone intentionally that they are not important.

  • She snubbed him at the party by walking away.
  • The manager snubbed the intern's suggestions.
ignore

Used in a general sense when you don't pay attention to someone or something.

  • He ignored the loud noise outside.
  • She ignored his text messages.
reject

Used when you refuse to accept, agree to, or believe something.

  • They rejected the proposal.
  • His membership application was rejected.
disregard

Used when you ignore something because you don't think it is important.

  • The company disregarded his complaints.
  • She disregarded the warning signs.
spurn

Used when you reject someone or something in a proud and scornful way.

  • She spurned his advances.
  • The artist spurned the commercial offer.

Examples of usage

  • He snubbed her at the party, refusing to even acknowledge her presence.
  • The boss snubbed his employees by not inviting them to the meeting.
  • Don't snub your classmates, try to be more inclusive.
  • She felt hurt when he snubbed her invitation to the dance.
  • I hope they don't snub us at the event tomorrow.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Social Psychology

  • Snubbing can lead to feelings of rejection and can have lasting effects on interpersonal relationships.
  • Studies show that being snubbed can trigger the same responses in the brain as physical pain, highlighting its emotional impact.

Pop Culture

  • In famous films and shows, characters often snub others to showcase social status or power dynamics.
  • Music has references to snubbing in songs about heartbreak, illustrating feelings of being ignored or overlooked.

Literature

  • Many classic novels feature themes of social snubbing, showcasing the complexities of human interaction and societal norms.
  • Poets often use snubbing to contrast warmth and rejection, creating powerful emotional imagery.

Historical Context

  • In social gatherings during the 18th and 19th centuries, snubbing was a common way to indicate class differences.
  • Notable figures in history have been snubbed at important events, affecting their reputations and public perceptions.

Origin of 'snub'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'snub' originates from the late 18th century, believed to come from a Scottish dialect where it meant to 'rebuff' or 'reject'.
  • It may also have connections to the word 'snub-nosed', describing a flat or short nose, used in a context of disdain.

The word 'snub' originated in the late 18th century as a nautical term, referring to the act of checking a ship's movement by turning a sail against the wind. Over time, the term evolved to also mean ignoring or rejecting someone. The negative connotation of disdain and contempt became associated with the word in social interactions.


See also: snubs.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,115, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.