snag
snag Lexical Profile
snag Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An unexpected or hidden obstacle, difficulty, or drawback that impedes progress.
"The construction project hit a major snag when the city delayed the building permits."
A sharp, jagged projection, or a tear, pull, or loose thread in fabric caused by catching on such a projection.
"She noticed a small snag in her silk sweater after brushing against the rosebush."
A standing dead tree, or a sunken tree trunk or large branch submerged in a river or lake that poses a hazard to navigation.
"The old oak snag at the edge of the forest provided nesting cavities for woodpeckers and owls."
Australian A raw or cooked link sausage, especially one grilled on a barbecue.
"We grilled a couple of snags and some onions on the barbecue for lunch."
• verb
To catch, tear, or damage something on a sharp or jagged projection.
"He snagged his jacket sleeve on a rusty nail while climbing over the fence."
To catch, grab, or obtain something quickly, opportunistically, or deftly (informal).
"She managed to snag the last two front-row tickets before the concert sold out."
• Rhymes for snag
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the late 16th century as a dialectal word for a jagged stump or projection, likely borrowed from a Scandinavian source related to Old Norse 'snagi' (clothes peg or projecting point). In Australian and New Zealand slang, 'snag' meaning sausage is of uncertain origin, possibly deriving from British dialectal uses for a light meal or snack.