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trap
/træp/
a device to catch animals or a difficult situation
The hunter set a trap to catch the rabbit.
A trap is a device used to catch animals, like a rabbit in this case.
general
a device designed to catch animals, typically by ensnaring or confining them
The trap was baited with cheese to attract the mouse.
A trap can be baited with food to lure animals into it.
Traps can be physical devices or natural features used for hunting or pest control.
general
a situation or condition that is difficult to escape from
He fell into a trap of debt and couldn't get out.
A trap can also refer to a difficult situation, like financial problems.
This figurative use is common in everyday language.
general
to catch someone or something in a trap
The police trapped the thief in the alley.
To trap means to catch someone in a trap or difficult situation.
This can be literal (using a physical trap) or figurative (like trapping someone in a conversation).
Collocations
set a trapto prepare a trap for catching somethingfall into a trapto get caught in a difficult situationtrap someoneto catch someone in a trap or difficult situation
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Literal vs. Figurative Use
Remember that 'trap' can refer to both physical devices and metaphorical situations. Context will help you determine which meaning is intended.
Gold Rule
Common Collocations
'Set a trap' and 'fall into a trap' are common collocations. Learn these phrases to sound more natural.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'trappen', from Old Norse 'trappa' meaning 'to tread, step'. The noun sense developed from the verb meaning 'to catch in a trap'.
Usage Notes
The word 'trap' can be used both literally (for physical devices) and figuratively (for difficult situations). The verb form is commonly used in both contexts.
Word Breakdown
trap
to catch or ensnare
rootEnglish Dictionary