snapper

noun

snap·​per ˈsna-pər How to pronounce snapper (audio)
plural snappers
1
: one that snaps: such as
a
: something (such as a remark) that gives new orientation to a situation or utterance
2
plural also snapper
a
: any of numerous active carnivorous fishes (family Lutjanidae) of warm seas important as food and often as sport fishes
b
: any of several immature fishes (such as the young of the bluefish) that resemble a snapper

Examples of snapper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lobsters, grouper, snapper, snook and myriad other marine animals use the reef as habitat. Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 3 July 2025 Vermilion snappers are known for their bright red color and slender body. Ashley J. Dimella, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2025 On the nearby beach, crabs scurry about — fishermen use them as bait to catch snapper and other reef fish. Jeanine Barone, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025 The big, beautiful, lacquered snapper arrived on a large wood plank and took up half my table. Keith Pandolfi, The Enquirer, 3 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for snapper

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of snapper was circa 1587

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Cite this Entry

“Snapper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/snapper. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

snapper

noun
snap·​per ˈsnap-ər How to pronounce snapper (audio)
plural snappers
1
a
: something that snaps
2
plural also snapper
a
: any of a large family of active flesh-eating fishes of warm seas that are important as food and sport fishes
b
: any of several immature fishes (as the young of the bluefish) that resemble a snapper

More from Merriam-Webster on snapper

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