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Definition of snaffle

snaffle

/ˈsnæf.əl/
snaf · fle
Plural:snaffles
•
Past Simple:snaffled
•
Past Participle:snaffled
•
Present Participle:snaffling
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snaffle Lexical Profile

snaffle Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A simple, often jointed bridle bit for a horse that acts directly on the corners of the mouth without leverage.

Example

"The trainer fitted the young horse with a gentle rubber snaffle for its first riding lesson."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for snaffle

• verb

1

British To take, seize, or appropriate something quickly or surreptitiously for oneself (informal).

Example

"Someone managed to snaffle the last chocolate biscuit while my back was turned."

2

To fit, guide, or control a horse using a snaffle bit.

Example

"The groom helped snaffle the colt before leading him out to the paddock."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for snaffle
Antonyms
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• Rhymes for snaffle

• Nearby Words

snackbar
snacker
snacky
snaffle
snafu
snag
snaggled

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 16th century, probably borrowed from Low German 'snavel' or Dutch 'snavel' (meaning 'beak' or 'snout'), referring to the placement of the bit in a horse's mouth.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Snaffle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/snaffle
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