sniper
2 synonyms and 0 antonyms for sniper, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Someone trained to shoot accurately at targets from a hidden position, often at long range.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use sniper
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From snipe + -er, originally describing a hunter skilled enough to shoot the hard-to-hit snipe bird.
Full origin of sniper →Frequently asked questions
What does “sniper” mean?
The word “sniper” means someone trained to shoot accurately at targets from a hidden position, often at long range. In plain terms, a precise, hidden shooter — or, more loosely, someone who criticizes from the sidelines.
How do you pronounce “sniper”?
“Sniper” is pronounced SNEYE-p (/ˈsnaɪ.pɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “sniper” in a sentence?
Here is “sniper” used in a sentence: “The sniper waited patiently on the rooftop for hours.”
What part of speech is “sniper”?
“Sniper” is a noun.
Is “sniper” a common word?
“Sniper” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “sniper” have?
“Sniper” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: someone trained to shoot accurately at targets from a hidden position, often at long range.
What is the difference between a "sniper" and a regular soldier?
A sniper is specifically trained to shoot accurately at targets from a hidden position, often at long range, using specialized skills like camouflage and precision marksmanship. A regular soldier does not typically have this specialized long-range, concealed-shooting role.
What does it mean to call someone a "sniper" in a non-military context?
Used figuratively, a "sniper" describes a person who repeatedly criticizes others, often unfairly or from a safe distance, rather than confronting them directly. This sense compares harsh, indirect criticism to shooting from a hidden position.
Is "sniper" used mostly in military contexts or everyday conversation?
The literal meaning of a trained long-range marksman is mostly used in military, law enforcement, or gaming contexts. The figurative sense, describing a harsh critic, appears more often in everyday conversation and workplace or online settings.