snarl
snarl (snärl)
intransitive verb
- to growl fiercely, baring the teeth, as a threatening dog
- to speak harshly and sharply, as in anger, impatience, etc.
Etymology: extended from earlier snar, to growl, akin to Swed snarra, MHG, MDu, MLowG snarren, to growl < IE echoic base *(s)ner-, *(s)nur- > sneer, snore, OIce norn, Norn
transitive verb
noun
- a fierce, harsh growl
- a harsh utterance expressing anger, impatience, etc.
Related Forms:
- snarler snarl′er noun
- snarlingly snarl′·ingly adverb
snarl (snärl)
transitive verb
- to make (thread, hair, etc.) knotted or tangled
- to make disordered or confused; complicate to snarl traffic
- to ornament (metalwork) with a raised design, as by hammering
intransitive verb
noun
- a knotted or tangled mass or tuft; tangle hair full of snarls
- a confused, disordered state or situation; complication; confusion
Etymology: ME snarle
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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