What does snark mean Meaning and Definition
What does snark mean
Pronunciation
/snɑːrk/
Part of Speech
Noun or verb
Definition
A sneering or mocking comment, often aimed at someone who is trying to be superior or appears foolish. It can also mean to engage in mocking or scornful behavior.
Examples
- She made a snarky comment about his outfit.
- He snarked at his friend’s joke, saying it was off-color.
Synonyms
- Sarcastic
- Mocking
- Derisive
Antonyms
- Genuine
- Sincere
- Complimentary
Etymology
The word “snark” was popularized by Lewis Carroll’s poem “Jabberwocky” in 1871. Carroll used the word to describe a creature that was a cross between a snake and a shark.
Usage Notes
Snarky comments are often used to express skeptical or mocking opinions, and can be seen as a way to convey disapproval or disdain.
Snark can be used as a noun or a verb, and can be used in a variety of contexts, including social media, politics, and everyday conversation.
Cultural References
The term “snark” has been used in various forms of media, including TV shows, movies, and books.
- In the TV show “Stranger Things,” one of the characters is nicknamed “Snarky” for their sarcastic comments.
- In the movie “Mean Girls,” the character Cady uses the term “snark” to describe her friend Regina’s mocking behavior.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To snark at someone
- To give someone a snarky comment
Related Words or Phrases
Sarcastic, mocking, and derisive are all related words to snark.
Collocations
Snark is often used in combination with other words, such as:
- Snarky comment
- Snarky remark
- Snarky tone
Frequency of Use
The word “snark” is used more frequently in informal contexts, such as social media and conversation with friends.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word “snark” include:
- Snarc
- Snaark
- Snarck
Cultural Context
The meaning of “snark” can vary depending on the cultural context. In some cultures, snarky comments may be seen as a way to build relationships and show camaraderie, while in others they may be seen as a form of disrespect.