"Snarky" is used to describe speech with a specific emotional tone, typically a form of sarcasm informed by cheekiness and a mild, playful irreverence or impudence. When the dominant intent of the communication is to express or convey direct or judgmental rudeness, the sense of mild cheekiness is lost and the overall communication crosses the line to become "snide."
The young music reviewer's snarky comments about the aging rock star's choice in clothing ultimately cost her an interview with the star months later.
by Momoinator September 24, 2009
A word that should be googled to find the definition as per direction from Dane Cook. It means short tempered or irritable.
by Wayne Dizzle September 17, 2006
A witty mannerism, personality, or behavior that is a combination of sarcasm and cynicism. Usually accepted as a complimentary term. Snark is sometimes mistaken for a snotty or arrogant attitude.
by A Gianotto (snipe) October 9, 2002
Adjective - Any language that contains quips or comments containing sarcastic or satirical witticisms intended as blunt irony. Usually delivered in a manner that is somewhat abrupt and out of context and intended to stun and amuse. Origin: Snark="snide remark".
Evelyn always called attention to the proverbial pink elephant in the room with her snarky comments.
by Greg February 28, 2005
Usage: I can always count on Joel McHale and the Soup for hilarious, snarky commentary on all things pop culture.
by w0rdsm1th July 18, 2009
Critical in a curmudgeonly sort of way.
The adjective snarky is first recorded in 1906. It is from dialectal British snark, meaning 'to nag, find fault with', which is probably the same word as snark, snork, meaning 'to snort, snore'. (The likely connection is the derisive snorting sound of someone who is always finding fault.) Most dictionaries label snarky as "Chiefly British Slang." But for the last five or more years, it has become increasingly common in American publications, maybe ones infiltrated by British or Canadian writers and journalists.
The adjective snarky is first recorded in 1906. It is from dialectal British snark, meaning 'to nag, find fault with', which is probably the same word as snark, snork, meaning 'to snort, snore'. (The likely connection is the derisive snorting sound of someone who is always finding fault.) Most dictionaries label snarky as "Chiefly British Slang." But for the last five or more years, it has become increasingly common in American publications, maybe ones infiltrated by British or Canadian writers and journalists.
by William Harold June 6, 2005
by Nick Orloff September 27, 2006