trap meaning and definition

TRAP noun

Definition of trap (noun)

1. a device in which something (usually an animal) can be caught and penned
2. drain consisting of a U-shaped section of drainpipe that holds liquid and so prevents a return flow of sewer gas
3. something (often something deceptively attractive) that catches you unawares
   • "the exam was full of trap questions"; "it was all a snare and delusion"
   • synonyms: snare
4. a device to hurl clay pigeons into the air for trapshooters
5. the act of concealing yourself and lying in wait to attack by surprise
   • synonyms: ambuscade, ambush, lying in wait
6. informal terms for the mouth
   • synonyms: cakehole, gob, hole, maw, yap
7. a light two-wheeled carriage
8. a hazard on a golf course
   • synonyms: bunker, sand trap

TRAP verb

Definition of trap (verb)

1. place in a confining or embarrassing position
   • "He was trapped in a difficult situation"
   • synonyms: pin down
2. catch in or as if in a trap
   • "The men trap foxes"
   • synonyms: ensnare, entrap, snare, trammel
3. hold or catch as if in a trap
   • "The gaps between the teeth trap food particles"
4. to hold fast or prevent from moving
   • "The child was pinned under the fallen tree"
   • synonyms: immobilise, immobilize, pin