Snag Meaning and Definition

: Snag

Snag

Pronunciation

/snæɡ/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A small tear or rip in fabric or other material, typically caused by sudden or violent action.

Examples

  • The snag in my pants caused it to rip completely apart.
  • She tried to repair the snag, but it was too difficult.

Synonyms

  • Rip
  • Tear
  • Cut

Antonyms

  • Mend
  • Heal
  • Repair

Etymology

From Old English snagan, snæcn, snac, snag, snæg, meaning “to snatch” or “to seize.”

Usage Notes

Snag is typically used to describe a small tear or rip in fabric or other material, but it can also be used more broadly to describe any small imperfection or flaw.

Cultural References

Snag is featured prominently in the TV show “The Great British Sewing Bee” as a common problem for contestants to overcome.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • Get a snag in one’s pants, literally or figuratively.

Related Words or Phrases

  • Tear
  • Rip
  • Cut
  • Mend
  • Heal
  • Repair

Collocations

  • A snag in one’s clothing.
  • A snag in one’s fabric.

Frequency of Use

Snag is a relatively common word, particularly in informal settings and in contexts related to sewing, crafting, or repair.

Common Misspellings

  • Snage
  • Snagge
  • Snags

Related Words