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put out, as of fires, flames, or lights
to kill or eliminate a living being, often abruptly or violently
What does "to snuff out" mean in slang?
The structure is a verb phrase where "snuff" originally meant to extinguish a candle, now applied metaphorically to ending a life. It is used to describe killing or eliminating a living being, often abruptly, violently, or without warning, as in "He got snuffed out over a petty argument." People typically use the phrase in street or crime contexts, but also figuratively for ending careers, hopes, or movements. The term originated in the 17th century with the literal act of snuffing a candle flame, later adopted into violent slang by the 19th century, and remains common in crime fiction, hip hop lyrics, and true crime discussions.
