snaffle

¹

[ snaf-uhl ]

noun

1. Also called snaffle bit. a bit, usually jointed in the middle and without a curb, with a large ring at each end to which a rein and cheek strap are attached.

verb (used with object)

, snaf·fled, snaf·fling.

1. to put a snaffle on (a horse).
2. to control with or as with a snaffle.

snaffle

²

[ snaf-uhl ]

verb (used with object)

, British Informal.

, snaf·fled, snaf·fling.

1. to appropriate for one's own use, especially by devious means; purloin; filch.

snaffle

/ ˈsnæfəl /

noun

1. Also calledsnaffle bit a simple jointed bit for a horse

verb

1. informal.
   to steal or take for oneself
2. to equip or control with a snaffle

Word History and Origins

Origin of snaffle¹

1525–35; origin uncertain; compare Old Frisian snavel mouth, Dutch snavel, German Schnabel beak, bill

Origin of snaffle²

First recorded in 1715–25; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of snaffle¹

C16: of uncertain origin; compare Old Frisian snavel mouth, Old High German snabul beak

Example Sentences

Deirdre heard the click, click of Ginger's snaffle, the chirping of young birds under the roof, while Conal was eating.

From Project Gutenberg

The horses crunched them with a relish, their light snaffle bits acting as only slight impediments to their mastication.

From Project Gutenberg

A vigorous stirring is bound to upheave what is searched for, so in due course the Captain dug up a snaffle-bit.

From Project Gutenberg

He wondered why she hadn't taken advantage of the situation here to snaffle a husband.

From Project Gutenberg

The latter held the reins in both hands, each rein being single and fastened to either side of a snaffle-like bit.

From Project Gutenberg