ensnare

[en-snair]

verb (used with object)

ensnared, ensnaring 

1. to capture in, or involve as in, a snare.

   to be ensnared by lies; to ensnare birds.

   Synonyms: enmesh, entangle, entrap
   Antonyms: release

ensnare

/ ɪnˈsnɛə /

verb

1. to catch or trap in a snare

2. to trap or gain power over someone by dishonest or underhand means

Other Word Forms

• ensnarer noun
• ensnarement noun
• ensnaringly adverb
• unensnared adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ensnare¹

First recorded in 1585–95; en- ¹ + snare ¹

Example Sentences

Naturally, The Times was also ensnared by the hysteria of Roan’s arrival in Pasadena.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Because the Revolutionary War had destroyed the American monetary system, struggling backcountry farmers became ensnared in debt to urban elites.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

France has been ensnared in political turmoil since Macron called snap elections in 2024 that failed to produce a clear majority in the National Assembly, France’s lower house of parliament.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Tension between the U.S. and its allies and China has at times ensnared the bank.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

It caused waves in the global car industry, ensnaring several other top carmakers and leading to legal action in several countries.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• cheat 
• embroil 
• enmesh 
• entangle 
• entrap 
• mislead 
• snare