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English definition of “snap”


verb uk   /snæp/ (-pp-) us  

snap verb (BREAK)


snap verb (MOVE QUICKLY)

[I or T, usually + adv/prep] to move into a position quickly, producing a short noise as if breaking: Tendons store elastic energy by stretching and then snapping back into shape like rubber bands. Simply snap the pieces into place.Moving quicklySounds made by objects, movement or impact [I + adv/prep] to quickly return to a previous place or condition: After substantial losses last year, the company has snapped back to profitability (= started making profits again).Returning to a placeRestoring and reviving snap shut C2 If something snaps shut or is snapped shut, it closes quickly with a sudden sharp sound: She snapped her book shut and got up to leave. Her mouth snapped shut when she realized he'd heard everything she'd said about him.Closing and blocking

snap verb (ANIMAL)

[I] If an animal snaps, it tries to bite someone: The guard dog was snarling and snapping behind the fence.Squeezing and grinding

snap verb (SPEAK)


snap verb (PHOTOGRAPH)



noun uk   /snæp/ us  

snap noun (BREAKING NOISE)

[C usually singular] a sudden loud sound like something breaking or closing: She broke the stick over her knee with a loud snap.Sounds made by objects, movement or impact [C] US for press studFastening clothing and textiles

snap noun (PHOTOGRAPH)


snap noun (GAME)

[U] a card game in which the players compete to call out the word 'snap' when they see two cards that have the same value: a game of snapCard games

snap noun (SOMETHING EASY)



adjective [before noun] uk   /snæp/ us  
done suddenly without allowing time for careful thought or preparation: He always makes snap decisions and never thinks about their consequences.Hurrying and doing things quicklyBusy and activeDoing things without fear or proper thought


exclamation uk   /snæp/ us  
'Snap!' is what you say in the game of snap when two cards of the same value have been played.Actions involved in playing cards UK informal something that you say when you notice that two things are the same: Snap! We're wearing the same shirts!Similar and the sameDescribing people with the same qualities
What is the pronunciation of snap?
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