Pronunciation: [snˈaɡ] (IPA) 
The word "snag" is spelled as /snæɡ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first two letters "sn" represent the initial consonant cluster that is pronounced as a single sound. The "a" in the middle is pronounced as the short vowel sound /æ/. The final "g" is silent, which means it is not pronounced. Despite the letter "g" being present in the spelling, it is not pronounced, making it an example of a silent letter in English.
Snag can be defined as a noun or a verb with multiple meanings. As a noun, it refers to a sharp or jagged projection or obstacle that may catch or impede the progress of something, like a hook or branch. In this sense, a snag can difficulty an action or cause a problem. It is often used in the context of getting caught or entangled, as in, "My shirt got snagged on a nail." Snag can also represent a stump or standing dead tree that is still firmly rooted in the ground. These snags are often important components of forest ecosystems, offering habitats for various organisms, such as birds and insects.
As a verb, snag means to catch, hook, or take hold of something, often abruptly or accidentally. This usage commonly refers to the action of getting trapped or entangled by a snag or another object, like a branch or thorn. For example, "She snagged her sweater on the fence while climbing over it." Additionally, snag can signify obtaining or acquiring something desirable or advantageous, often unexpectedly or with difficulty. For instance, "I managed to snag the last ticket for the concert." In a more informal context, snag can also mean to obtain a romantic or sexual partner, as in, "He finally snagged himself a date after months of trying."
• A short rough branch; a knot; a sharp protuberance; a tooth projecting beyond the rest; a sunken tree, of which one end appears at or near the surface in a river, while the other is firmly fixed at the bottom.
• To hew roughly, as with an axe; to disable or pierce by means of the trunk of a tree floating end upwards in a river.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "snag" has its origins in Middle English, dating back to the 15th century. It derived from the Old Norse word "snagi", which means a "clothesfastener" or "a noose". In Old English, it was known as "snaca" or "snacga", meaning a "bird snare" or "noose". Over time, the meaning of "snag" expanded to refer to anything that catches or hinders progress, such as a branch or stump in the path.
