entrap

[en-trap]

verb (used with object)

entrapped, entrapping 

1. to catch in or as in a trap; ensnare.

   The hunters used nets to entrap the lion.

   Synonyms: trap, snare, capture

2. to bring unawares into difficulty or danger.

   He entrapped himself in the web of his own lies.

3. to lure into performing an act or making a statement that is compromising or illegal.

4. to draw into contradiction or damaging admission.

   The questioner entrapped her into an admission of guilt.

5. Law.,  to catch by entrapment.

entrap

/ ɪnˈtræp /

verb

1. to catch or snare in or as if in a trap

2. to lure or trick into danger, difficulty, or embarrassment

Other Word Forms

• entrapper noun
• entrappingly adverb
• unentrapped adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of entrap¹

From the Middle French word entraper, dating back to 1525–35. See en- ¹, trap ¹

Example Sentences

"You could be kids messing about or someone trying to entrap me," I suggested.

From BBC

Predator had been used in attempts to entrap at least 87 people, according to the Hellenic Data Protection Authority.

From BBC

Thailand previously implemented similar measures on neighbouring Myanmar, which is also home to thriving scam networks that have entrapped thousands of foreigners.

From BBC

"We are worried about America abandoning us, but at the same time we are worried about being entrapped in American strategy to contain and encircle China", he said.

From BBC

"It's very, very concerning when you have such a volume of people entering an area and could end up being entrapped by a wildfire," Mr McMullen said.

From BBC

Related Words

• enmesh 
• ensnare 
• entangle 
• entice 
• implicate 
• seduce