To break suddenly with a sharp sound, or to make a quick, sharp noise with your fingers or mouth. It can also mean to take a quick photograph.
“Snap” likely comes from Low German or Dutch words like “snappen,” meaning “to snatch” or “to seize suddenly.” The word imitates the sharp sound of something breaking or biting. English extended it to quick photos and sudden actions.
“Snap” is almost pure sound‑effect—say it and you can hear something breaking or clicking. That onomatopoeic power made it perfect for camera culture: a “snapshot” is a visual version of that sudden “snap.” The word packs sound, motion, and speed into one syllable.
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