mousetrap

[mous-trap]

noun

1. a trap for mice, especially one consisting of a rectangular wooden base on which a metal spring is mounted.

2. a device, machine, or the like whose structure or function suggests a trap for mice.

3. a device, system, or stratagem for detecting and catching someone in an unauthorized or illegal act.

4. Football.,  trap.

verb (used with object)

mousetrapped, mousetrapping 

1. Informal.

   1. to trap or snare.

      traffic cops mousetrapping drunken drivers.

   2. to manipulate by devious or clever means; trick or outwit.

      to mousetrap the witness into a contradiction.

2. Football.,  trap.

mousetrap

/ ˈmaʊsˌtræp /

noun

1. any trap for catching mice, esp one with a spring-loaded metal bar that is released by the taking of the bait

2. informal,  cheese of indifferent quality

Word History and Origins

Origin of mousetrap¹

First recorded in 1400–50, mousetrap is from late Middle English mous trappe. See mouse, trap ¹

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. build a better mousetrap, to make or offer a superior product.

Example Sentences

It opened behind the big black iron stove, just to the left of the mousetrap.

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To capture fentanyl with an electrochemical sensor, researchers used a molecular cagelike structure they compared to a mousetrap.

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“We want to build the best mousetrap,” he said.

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Suddenly I was on the floor, and the mousetrap was on my big toe.

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But they did have a crucial insight into how to build a better mousetrap.

Read more on Salon

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