verb
schnalzen
click · snap
Ein kurzes, schnelles Geräusch mit der Zunge oder den Lippen machen.
The German word "schnalzen" is a verb meaning "to snap" (with the fingers or tongue) or "to click" (like a whip).
- The root "schnalz-" imitates the sound made when snapping, so it is onomatopoeic.
Similar words in German:
- knallen (to bang, to pop) – often louder and more explosive sound
- klatschen (to clap) – involves hands, more deliberate sound
- klacken (to click) – a sharper, repetitive sound often mechanical
Difference: "schnalzen" usually refers specifically to snapping sounds made with the fingers, tongue, or whip, while the others describe different types of sharp or loud noises.
Make “schnalzen” part of your vocabulary.
Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Er kann mit der Zunge schnalzen.verb
He can click with his tongue.
Hast du beim Laufen mit den Fingern geschnalzt?verb
Did you snap your fingers while walking?
Keep exploring German
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad