snapper
UK: ˈsnæpə | US: ˈsnæpər
n. a fish with strong jaws that snaps, especially of the family Lutjanidae
n. a person or thing that snaps (e.g., a snapping turtle, a photographer)
n. (informal) a quick, sharp reply
The word "snapper" derives from the verb "snap," which originated in Middle Dutch ("snappen," meaning to seize or bite suddenly) and later evolved in English to describe sharp, sudden actions or sounds. The suffix "-er" transforms the action into an agent noun, referring to something or someone that performs the action. Initially used for fish with powerful biting jaws (e.g., snapper fish), it later extended metaphorically to photographers (who "snap" pictures) and witty speakers (who "snap" back with sharp replies).
The red snapper is a popular dish in coastal restaurants.
The old camera was a reliable snapper for candid shots.
She’s known as the office snapper for her quick comebacks.
A snapper turtle lurked beneath the pond’s surface.
His reply was such a snapper that the room fell silent.