snaffle

¹

[ snaf-uhl ]

noun

1. Also called snaffle bit. a bit, usually jointed in the middle and without a curb, with a large ring at each end to which a rein and cheek strap are attached.

verb (used with object)

, snaf·fled, snaf·fling.

1. to put a snaffle on (a horse).
2. to control with or as with a snaffle.

snaffle

²

[ snaf-uhl ]

verb (used with object)

, British Informal.

, snaf·fled, snaf·fling.

1. to appropriate for one's own use, especially by devious means; purloin; filch.

snaffle

/ ˈsnæfəl /

noun

1. Also calledsnaffle bit a simple jointed bit for a horse

verb

1. informal.
   to steal or take for oneself
2. to equip or control with a snaffle

Word History and Origins

Origin of snaffle¹

1525–35; origin uncertain; compare Old Frisian snavel mouth, Dutch snavel, German Schnabel beak, bill

Origin of snaffle²

First recorded in 1715–25; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of snaffle¹

C16: of uncertain origin; compare Old Frisian snavel mouth, Old High German snabul beak

Example Sentences

Kerr snaffled two wickets in two balls as she bowled both Perry and Grace Harris through the gate with her googly - something England's Sarah Glenn may have watched with interest.

From BBC

After failing to convert a succession of chances he would normally snaffle without a thought in the draw against Chelsea at the weekend, Haaland seemed like a man on a mission from the first whistle.

From BBC

Lewis told presenter Daz Hale he "amazingly and luckily snaffled up" his first two professional jobs at the Birmingham Rep straight out of drama school.

From BBC

Stokes arrived at the crease when Root got a ball from Cummins that bounced, took the edge and was snaffled by Smith at second slip.

From BBC

Porter snaffled his second from Owen Farrell's kick, before a penalty try and Smith topped up England's lead.

From BBC