Why Snap Fingers Instead of Clapping?

Instead of laughter or clapping, the audience turns to snapping as a form of approval. When a powerful line erupts into thin air, there's a symphony of fingers pop-pop-popping to catch it from falling. The more snaps that fill the empty space, the more people are pursing their lips and nodding their heads.

When did snapping replace clapping?

Swapping snapping for clapping might have originated in Roman times but gained popularity with poetry readings in the 1960's. Some sororities are fond of the method, too. The snapping at poetry readings, was used to signify appreciation for the poet.

What does snapping your fingers mean?

to make a noise by pushing your second finger hard against your thumb and then releasing it suddenly so that it hits the base of your thumb: He was snapping his fingers in time with the music. SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases. Gestures & gesturing.