Why does Anakin call Ahsoka Snips? The Clone Wars nickname explained

Anakin and Ahsoka in The Clone Wars
(Image credit: Disney/Lucasfilm)

Why does Anakin call Ahsoka Snips? If you've never seen The Clone Wars, you might be wondering where exactly this unusual nickname comes from. 

Ahsoka Tano made her Star Wars debut in the animated show, appearing again in Star Wars Rebels, and now leading her own live-action show following cameos in The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett. So far, her history with her former Master Anakin Skywalker hasn't been explored all that much in live-action, which means some crucial context is missing if you haven't seen The Clone Wars or Rebels. 

We're here to explain all, though – and a warning that the following will contain spoilers for Ahsoka episode 4! Turn back now if you're not up to date! 

Why does Anakin call Ahsoka Snips?

Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker in Ahsoka

(Image credit: Disney/Lucasfilm)

Anakin and Ahsoka first meet in The Clone Wars feature length animated movie. Ahsoka is sent by Yoda to become Anakin's Padawan, which he is none too pleased about. The duo don't really get on at first in a clash of personalities, and when Ahsoka gives her Master the snarky nickname "Skyguy," he warns her: "Don't get snippy with me."

And so, the nicknames Snips and Skyguy were born. They become affectionate names pretty fast, and Anakin and Ahsoka use them plenty across the animated series. 

In fact, Anakin calls Ahsoka by her nickname so much that, when we first see Hayden Christensen's Anakin back in Ahsoka episode 4, the first thing he says is, "Hello, Snips," in a moment sure to tug at the heartstrings of every Clone Wars fan. We have to say, it's good to hear it again after so long. 


Ahsoka is streaming weekly on Disney Plus now. For much more on the show, check out our deep dives on: 

Molly Edwards
Senior Entertainment Writer

I'm a Senior Entertainment Writer here at GamesRadar+, covering all things film and TV for the site's Total Film and SFX sections. I previously worked on the Disney magazines team at Immediate Media, and also wrote on the CBeebies, MEGA!, and Star Wars Galaxy titles after graduating with a BA in English. 

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