snap

Definition

  • verb: to break quickly with a short, sharp sound
  • verb: to make a sudden closing of the jaws
  • usually singular
  • synonyms: crack, scrap, briskness

Examples

  • The children 'snapped to attention' [=suddenly stopped moving around, talking, etc.] when the teacher clapped his hands.

  • They 'snapped' [='broke'] a 10-game losing streak. [=they won a game after losing 10 games]

  • I don't know how to get her to 'snap out of' her depression. [=to stop being depressed]

Movie quotes

  • (..) in case you didn't notice. Although you treat them that way. We don't scare them any more than we have to, Percy. - They're under enough strain as it is. - Men under strain can snap. Hurt themselves and hurt others. That's why our job is... ...talking... ...not yelling. (..)
    1999 The Green Mile