WordGarden.iosnack
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /snˈæk/
US
- /ˈsnæk/
Meanings
Noun
a small amount of food eaten between meals or instead of a full meal
(slang)an attractive person
Verb
to eat a snack or eat lightly between meals
Beyond the definition
A snack isn't quite a full meal, but it's more than just a taste. Think of it as a little something to tide you over between breakfast and lunch, or a treat to enjoy while watching a movie. Snacks can be sweet, like cookies or fruit, or savory, like chips or pretzels. Sometimes, "snack" is even used as a verb: "He snacked on popcorn during the movie." Originally, the word referred to a quick bite or snap, much like a dog might snatch at something. Over time, it came to mean a casual, small amount of food. So, the next time you reach for a handful of nuts, remember that you're enjoying a little piece of linguistic history too.
The word "snack" refers to a small portion of food eaten between main meals or as an informal meal itself. It is typically lighter and quicker to prepare than a full course, designed to satisfy temporary hunger or provide a bit of enjoyment. For example: "She packed a healthy snack of apple slices and peanut butter for her hike."
The concept of snacking has evolved significantly over time. Historically, it was less common to eat between scheduled meals, but modern, fast-paced lifestyles have made snacks an integral part of many people's daily diets. Today, snacks range from simple items like fresh fruit or crackers to more elaborate treats like yogurt parfaits or mini-sandwiches.
Beyond its use as a noun, "snack" functions as a verb meaning to eat small portions of food casually. "He was snacking on popcorn during the game." It can also describe a person's habits; someone who enjoys eating frequently in smaller amounts is often called a "snacker."
Interestingly, the origin of the word is quite literal! It comes from the Middle Dutch word snacken, which meant to snatch or bite. In the 1400s, a "snack" was a sudden snap or a bite, particularly the kind a dog might make. This makes perfect sense when you consider how we often "snack" on things today—grabbing little bits here and there rather than sitting down for a long feast.
Whether it is a quick energy boost, a moment of indulgence, or simply a way to pass the time, a snack is more than just food; it is a cultural habit and a small pleasure woven into our daily routines.
Examples
- 1
Travel stop
We grabbed a quick snack at the station before the train left.
- 2
Afternoon food
I keep fruit and yogurt in the fridge for an afternoon snack.
- 3
School trip
The kids each brought two snacks for the class trip.
- 4
Hospitality
There were free snacks and drinks in the hotel lobby.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Eating habit
I try not to snack too much when I'm working at home.
- 6
Snack on food
She was snacking on almonds during the meeting.
- Patternsnack on + food
eat that food as a snack
- 7
Midnight snack
He went downstairs for a midnight snack after everyone else was asleep.
- Phrasemidnight snack
a small meal eaten late at night
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- snacknounverb
Forms
- snackspluralnounverb
- snacking-ing formverbnoun
- snackedpast tenseverbnoun