snapshot

[snap-shot]

noun

1. an informal photograph, especially one taken quickly by a handheld camera.

2. Hunting.,  a quick shot taken without deliberate aim.

3. Informal.,  a brief appraisal, summary, or profile.

verb (used with or without object)

snapshot, snapshotted, snapshotting. 

1. to photograph informally and quickly.

snapshot

/ ˈsnæpˌʃɒt /

noun

1. Often shortened to: snap. an informal photograph taken with a simple camera

Word History and Origins

Origin of snapshot¹

1800–10 snapshot for def. 2; 1860–65 snapshot for def. 1; snap (in the sense “done suddenly or casually”) + shot ¹

Example Sentences

Bloom Energy Corp. is riding a wave of optimism about artificial intelligence and energy needs, but its latest financial snapshot did little to resolve Wall Street’s divide over the alternative-energy company and its prospects.

Read more on MarketWatch

He argued the footage aired was only an edited snapshot of the conversation he was having about the case and issues over the suspect's detention.

Read more on BBC

More than 50 artists and groups come together for a three-week presentation that includes performances, static art, tours, talks and more to offer a detailed snapshot of the art form.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Our study offers a snapshot, but long-term research could reveal whether moral judgments track broader economic or cultural changes.

Read more on Salon

Data on Friday gives a snapshot of Hong Kong’s economic health: Retail sales for September offer a glimpse into consumer demand and GDP estimates will show how growth held up in the third quarter.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• photo