entrap

verb

in-ˈtrap How to pronounce entrap (audio)
Definition of entrapnext
as in to trap
to catch or hold as if in a net a string of inconsistent statements and outright lies that finally entrapped the witness

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb entrap contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of entrap are bag, capture, catch, ensnare, snare, and trap. While all these words mean "to come to possess or control by or as if by seizing," entrap and ensnare more often are figurative.

entrapped the witness with a trick question
a sting operation that ensnared burglars

When might bag be a better fit than entrap?

The words bag and entrap are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bag implies shooting down a fleeing or distant prey.

bagged a brace of pheasants

When could capture be used to replace entrap?

The meanings of capture and entrap largely overlap; however, capture suggests taking by overcoming resistance or difficulty.

capture an enemy stronghold

When is catch a more appropriate choice than entrap?

In some situations, the words catch and entrap are roughly equivalent. However, catch implies the seizing of something in motion or in flight or in hiding.

caught the dog as it ran by

How does the word trap relate to other synonyms for entrap?

Trap, snare, entrap, and ensnare imply seizing by some device that holds the one caught at the mercy of the captor. Trap and snare apply more commonly to physical seizing.

trap animals
snared butterflies with a net

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of entrap Soon after the hearing, Bolsonaro’s son Eduardo gave a speech from the floor of the legislature, accusing her of seducing sources to entrap his father. —Jon Lee Anderson, New Yorker, 7 Apr. 2025 In the book, Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates) chops off romance novelist Paul Sheldon's feet as part of her efforts to entrap him permanently in her home. —Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 29 Apr. 2025 Nearly 4 years in jail on choking charges Since he’s been in jail, Bishop has sent letters to courthouse officials — including Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Carla Archie and Clerk of Court Elisa Chinn-Gary — saying Blackwell, police and judges entrapped him by filing false charges. —Julia Coin, Charlotte Observer, 2 Apr. 2025 Gabi and Robinson head to the diner to entrap Maggie with yet another plate of cheese fries. —Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for entrap
Recent Examples of Synonyms for entrap
  1. trap
  2. tangle
Verb
  • The wounded included four children, one of whom had been trapped beneath the vehicle with three adults.
    — Kwiyeon Ha, Los Angeles Times, 27 May 2025
  • The vacuum’s efficient multi-layer filtration system traps airborne particles utilizing HEPA and foam filters, both of which are washable and reusable.
    — Maggie Horton, People.com, 27 May 2025
Definition of trap
Verb
  • Meanwhile, nearly every link in the international supply chain is now tangled in tariffs, prompting swift retaliatory measures from Canada and China.
    — Elena Bou, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
  • The brush bars' conical shape prevents hair tangling around them, and actually encourages hair to roll off the bars and onto the floor in a ball that can be easily picked up.
    — Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 22 May 2025
Definition of tangle

Browse Nearby Words

entrants
entrap
entrapment
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Entrap.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/entrap. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of entrap for Spanish Speakers

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