Meaning & Definition of word "Snarl"
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Snarl
/snɑːrl/
noun:
- 1. a vicious or threatening sound made by a dog.
- Example: The snarls from the dog echoed in the night.
- 2. a tangled or complicated situation.
- Example: The traffic snarled into a massive jam during rush hour.
verb:
- 1. to make a vicious, threatening sound, typically made by a dog.
- Example: The dog began to snarl at the stranger approaching its territory.
- 2. to speak in an angry, vicious manner.
- Example: He snarled his response, clearly agitated by the question.
- 3. to become tangled or entangled.
- Example: The cables are snarled together, making it difficult to unplug anything.
Etymology
Middle English 'snerlen'; probably imitative of the sound.
Common Phrases and Expressions
snarl at someone:
To speak in a fierce or aggressive manner towards someone.
traffic snarl:
A situation where traffic is congested and moving slowly.
snarl one’s teeth:
To bare one's teeth in a threatening or aggressive manner.
Related Words
growl:
A low, guttural sound made by animals, often indicating anger.
fret:
To be constantly or visibly worried or anxious.
snide:
Derogatory or mocking in an indirect way.
Slang Meanings of snarl
Meaning: To criticize harshly.
Example Sentence: He just snarled at my idea during the meeting.
Meaning: To complain or grumble.
Example Sentence: Stop snarling about the workload and get it done.