plural snappers
1
: one that snaps: such as
a
: something (such as a remark) that gives new orientation to a situation or utterance
2
plural also snapper
a
: any of numerous active carnivorous fishes (family Lutjanidae) of warm seas important as food and often as sport fishes
b
: any of several immature fishes (such as the young of the bluefish) that resemble a snapper

Examples of snapper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
James Winchester The Chiefs’ longtime long snapper enjoys hitting a precise shot on a hunt as much as executing a snap on a punt or PAT. Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026 Adam Booker has been named to the watch list for the Patrick Mannelly Award, given annually to college football’s top long snapper. Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 4 Aug. 2026 The kicker competition hinges on rookie Trey Smack, whose evaluation was delayed by a long snapper injury, but is expected to progress with a new veteran long snapper. Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026 Long snapper competition Luke Elkin is the most experienced long snapper on the Bears’ roster. Kevin Fishbain, New York Times, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for snapper

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of snapper was circa 1587

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Snapper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/snapper. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

plural snappers
1
a
: something that snaps
2
plural also snapper
a
: any of a large family of active flesh-eating fishes of warm seas that are important as food and sport fishes
b
: any of several immature fishes (as the young of the bluefish) that resemble a snapper

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