Trap — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Trap
Trap (noun)
- a device for taking game or other animals; especially, one that holds by springing shut suddenly
- something by which one is caught or stopped unawares; also, a position or situation from which it is difficult or impossible to escape
- a football play in which a defensive player is allowed to cross the line of scrimmage and then is blocked from the side while the ballcarrier advances through the spot vacated by the defensive player
- rap music typically featuring heavy bass, synthesized drums, and triplet-based rhythms —often used before another noun
- traprock —often used before another noun
Trap (verb)
- to catch or take in or as if in a trap, entrap
- to place in a restricted position, confine
- to provide or set (a place) with traps
- to adorn with or as if with trappings or decorations
Trap (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
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a device or scheme for capturing another by surprise
"undercover agents devised a trap to catch the counterfeiters"
"a bear trap"
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a setup in which hidden attackers lie in wait
"an overland route to the Far East that was once notorious for the many robbers who laid traps for unsuspecting wayfarers"
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something that catches and holds
"the promotion is really just a trap to keep her from taking a new job elsewhere"
-
the opening through which food passes into the body of an animal
"shut your trap before someone belts you one!"
Trap (verb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
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to catch or hold as if in a net
"an ambitious young man who was now trapped in a series of shady business deals"
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to take physical control or possession of (something) suddenly or forcibly
"finally trapped the annoying fly in the palm of his hand"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Trap
The most common words with a similar meaning to Trap:
Antonyms & Opposite Words for Trap
Words with the opposite meaning of Trap:
Near Antonyms of Trap
Word Forms of Trap
Inflections: traps, trapped, trapping
Derived words: trapper (noun)
Origin & Etymology of Trap
Middle English, from Old English treppe & Anglo-French trape (of Germanic origin); akin to Middle Dutch trappe trap, stair, Old English treppan to tread
First known use: before 12th century
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Trap
- CEFR level: B2 English Vocabulary — Page 27
- Topics: Common Actions / Verbs
Words & Phrases Containing Trap
Frequently Asked Questions about Trap
What does "Trap" mean?
"Trap" means a device for taking game or other animals; especially, one that holds by springing shut suddenly. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: a device for taking game or other animals; especially, one that holds by springing shut suddenly. It has 6 distinct senses.
What is another word for "Trap"?
Other words for "Trap" include ambush, net, snare, web, ambuscade, ambushment, surprise and entanglement. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Trap" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Trap"?
There are 121 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Trap". Common alternatives include ambush, net, snare, web, ambuscade, ambushment, surprise, entanglement, mesh(es) and morass.
What is a slang word for "Trap"?
Slang words for "Trap" include kisser, piehole, yap, cop and nobble.
What is the opposite of "Trap"?
Antonyms of "Trap" include disentangle, untangle and miss. Near antonyms include detach, disengage, extricate and clear.
How do you use "Trap" in a sentence?
Examples of "Trap" in a sentence: "undercover agents devised a trap to catch the counterfeiters"; "a bear trap"; "an overland route to the Far East that was once notorious for the many robbers who laid traps for unsuspecting wayfarers".
Is "Trap" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Trap" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.
Is "Trap" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As a B2-level word, "Trap" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.