snib

[ snib ]

noun

1. a bolt, catch, lock, or fastening on a door or window.
2. the catch that holds the bolt on a lock.

verb (used with object)

, snibbed, snib·bing.

1. to bolt or fasten (a door or window).

snib

/ snɪb /

noun

1. the bolt or fastening of a door, window, etc

verb

1. to bolt or fasten (a door)

Word History and Origins

Origin of snib¹

First recorded in 1800–10; of uncertain origin; perhaps from Low German snibbe ( German Schnippe ), Swedish snibb “beak, point”

Word History and Origins

Origin of snib¹

C19: of uncertain origin; perhaps from Low German snibbe beak

Example Sentences

Keeping Snib's Farm on his right, he ran dead straight for Gallow's Wood, where some woodmen with their teams disturbed him.

From Project Gutenberg

The Parson, contentedly poor himself and full of compassion for his still poorer neighbours, equally ready at time of need to help the struggling sinner or to “snib” the impenitent rich man, has often tempted earlier commentators to read their own religious prepossessions into Chaucer’s verse.

From Project Gutenberg

He even tried to snib it again, but the catch had been broken in the fall, and the best he could do was to fasten it up with a bit of twine I lent him out of my pocket.

From Project Gutenberg

A house is never still in darkness to those who listen intently; there is a whispering in distant chambers, an unearthly hand presses the snib of the window, the latch rises.

From Project Gutenberg

"Did Sir Reginald ever forget to snib the windows, supposing one happened to be open?"

From Project Gutenberg