snaffle up
B2 informal separable transitive
In simple words
To grab something quickly so nobody else can have it.
Literal meaning: From 'snaffle' (to take quickly or stealthily) + 'up' (completely/eagerly).
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To take or acquire something eagerly and quickly, especially before others get the chance.
"Shoppers snaffled up all the discounted items within the first hour of the sale."
Grammar: separable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To take something that was not strictly meant for you, in an opportunistic way.
"Someone had snaffled up the last of the birthday cake before the party even started."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Distinctly British English and informal. Often implies a degree of cunning or opportunism, and occasionally suggests taking something that wasn't entirely yours to take. Common in British journalism and everyday speech.
Commonly used with
tickets bargains deals funding seats leftovers
Forms
Base
snaffle up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
snaffles up
he/she/it
Past simple
snaffled up
yesterday
Past participle
snaffled up
have + pp
-ing form
snaffling up
continuous
Understand "snaffle up" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "snaffle up" on Looplines