snooker

[ snook-er, snoo-ker ]

noun

1. a variety of pool played with 15 red balls and 6 balls of colors other than red, in which a player must shoot one of the red balls, each with a point value of 1, into a pocket before shooting at one of the other balls, with point values of from 2 to 7.

verb (used with object)

1. Slang. to deceive, cheat, or dupe:

   to be snookered by a mail order company.

snooker

/ ˈsnuːkə /

noun

1. a game played on a billiard table with 15 red balls, six balls of other colours, and a white cue ball. The object is to pot the balls in a certain order
2. a shot in which the cue ball is left in a position such that another ball blocks the object ball. The opponent is then usually forced to play the cue ball off a cushion

verb

1. to leave (an opponent) in an unfavourable position by playing a snooker
2. to place (someone) in a difficult situation
3. often passive to thwart; defeat

Word History and Origins

Origin of snooker¹

First recorded in 1885–90; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of snooker¹

C19: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

The worst attack occurred after nightfall on Thursday at a snooker club in Quetta in an area frequented by Hazara Shia Muslims.

From The Daily Beast

In some rooms it is considered fair and part of the game to snooker an opponent deliberately; in others the practice is condemned.

From Project Gutenberg

A four-handed game of snooker is in as rapid progress as is reasonably possible.

From Project Gutenberg

But Snooker, as usual, tried to sneak away, his tail between his legs.

From Project Gutenberg

My dear Jimmie, have I changed so much, then, since last we played snooker together in the club?

From Project Gutenberg

A year ago young Snooker had done a month for one of those very trout.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• choke off
• crimp
• foil
• impede
• obstruct
• stall
• stonewall
• thwart