snatches

Snatches is a term with multiple meanings in English, used in sports, crime reporting, media, and everyday language. The word can refer to a specific athletic lift, a type of theft, or a brief act or portion of something. Context determines the intended sense.

In weightlifting, the snatch is one of the two Olympic lifts. The barbell is lifted from the ground to an overhead position in one continuous motion, typically with a wide grip. The lift involves an initial pull from the floor, a rapid second pull to drive the bar upward, and a catch in a deep squat or partial squat before standing up with the bar overhead. It requires speed, balance, strength, and precise timing, and is contested alongside the clean and jerk in weightlifting competitions. Records are organized by weight class and age.

In crime reporting, snatch or snatch theft refers to a sudden act of stealing valuables from a person in a public space, often involving a brief, swift grab. The act is typically brief and may involve physical contact. Legal responses focus on criminalization, investigation, and prevention, with emphasis on personal safety, situational awareness, and securing belongings in crowded or vulnerable areas.

In popular culture, Snatch is the title of a 2000 British crime comedy film directed by Guy Ritchie, known for its interwoven plots and ensemble cast. In everyday language, to snatch means to seize something quickly, and phrases such as “snatch of time” or “snatch of conversation” refer to brief portions of time or speech.