To shoot at someone from a concealed position, or to make critical comments in a petty or underhanded way. Originally referred to hunting the snipe bird.
From Middle English, referring to a type of marsh bird that was difficult to hunt due to its erratic flight pattern. The military sense of hidden shooting developed in the 18th century from the skill required to hunt these elusive birds.
The transition from bird-hunting to military tactics happened because snipe birds were so notoriously difficult to shoot that anyone who could hit one was considered an exceptional marksman! This led to 'sniper' becoming military terminology for expert hidden shooters.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.