snipe
The verb form carries a strong connotation of stealth and cowardice, whether in a literal military context or a social one. When used physically, it implies a predatory advantage gained through concealment.
In a social or professional setting, it describes a specific type of aggression where the speaker avoids a direct confrontation, instead opting for "hit-and-run" criticisms that are designed to undermine others without taking full responsibility for the attack.
As a noun, the word refers to a specific bird. While the bird is countable, the term is most frequently encountered in the verb form in modern conversational English, particularly in the phrase "sniping at," which characterizes petty, persistent bickering.
Meanings
To shoot at a person or target from a hidden position, typically using a rifle.
The enemy soldiers attempted to snipe the officers from the treeline.
Phrasal Verbs
snipe at
to make critical or spiteful comments about someone indirectly
She spent the whole dinner sniping at her sister's choice of career.