# snap at

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/snap-at
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To lash out with a verbal attack.

## Examples

- Please do not snap at me just because you are tired.
- She was under so much pressure at work that she started to snap at her colleagues for no reason.
- Exhausted by the endless negotiations, the diplomat finally snapped at his counterpart, revealing the deep frustration he had tried so hard to conceal.

## Origin

First attested in the late 1500s.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.