Meaning & Definition of word "Snapshot"

Snapshot

/ˈsnæpˌʃɒt/

noun:

  • 1. A snapshot is a photograph taken quickly, often without formal posing.
    • Example: I took a quick snapshot of the sunset while driving.
  • 2. An informal or brief summary or report about a situation.
    • Example: The report provided a snapshot of the company's financial health.
  • 3. A representation or overview of a certain moment or aspect.
    • Example: Her article gave a snapshot of life in the 1980s.

verb:

  • 1. To take a quick photograph of something.
    • Example: I decided to snapshot the beautiful garden for my album.
  • 2. To capture a brief moment or piece of information.
    • Example: She wanted to snapshot the conversation for her notes.

Etymology

The term 'snapshot' originated in the early 19th century from 'snap', meaning to take a quick shot, and 'shot', used in the sense of a photographic image.

Common Phrases and Expressions

snapshot in time:

A moment captured or described that reflects a particular period.

take a snapshot:

To quickly capture a moment or image.

snapshot judgment:

A quick assessment or opinion formed without thorough analysis.

Related Words

photograph:

An image created by light falling on a photosensitive surface.

camera:

A device for capturing images electronically or chemically.

Slang Meanings of snapshot

Meaning: A quick or rough estimate of a situation.

Example Sentence: Can you give me a snapshot of how the project is going?

Meaning: An informal or basic photo taken on a phone.

Example Sentence: I just took a quick snapshot of my lunch for Instagram.