Synonyms for

Trap

Verb / træp / Another word for trap — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a device used for catching animals

Synonyms & similar words

lyinginwait sandtrap maw yap hole ensnare trammel pin immobilize bunker gob snare immobilise ambuscade entrap cakehole ambush pindown snare net lure decoy bait catch ambush entrap ensnare capture seize grasp clasp grip hold clutch embrace hug immobilize pin

Synonyms by register

Formal

ensnare entrap lure ambush

Informal

gotcha snare trick set up

Literary

snare pitfall noose

Antonyms

release freedom escape liberation allow permit

Common collocations

  • spring a trap
  • fall into a trap
  • set a trap
  • avoid a trap
  • escape a trap
  • death trap
  • booby trap
  • human trap

Word family

noun trap
verb trap
adjective trapped

Usage note

As a noun, 'trap' can refer to a physical device for catching animals or a difficult or dangerous situation. As a verb, it means to catch or ensnare someone or something.

Example sentences

  1. The hunter set a trap to catch the rabbit.
  2. The spider spun a sticky trap to catch flies.
  3. I almost fell into a trap when I clicked on a suspicious link.
  4. The police set a trap to catch the thief.
  5. She laid a trap for her brother by hiding his favorite toy.

Quotes

  • The best way to avoid a trap is to know of its existence.
  • A mouse never entrusts his life to only one hole.
  • The trap is always empty.

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