Meaning & Definition of word "Mousetrap"
to
Mousetrap
/ˈmaʊs.træp/
noun:
- 1. A device designed to catch or kill mice.
- Example: The farmer set a mousetrap in the barn to deal with the rodent problem.
- 2. A clever scheme or trick designed to catch someone unawares.
- Example: The detective set a mousetrap to catch the thief in the act.
- 3. A situation or scenario that is difficult to escape or avoid.
- Example: Their argument was like a mousetrap, with both sides unable to back down.
Etymology
Derived from the words 'mouse' + 'trap', where 'mouse' refers to the animal and 'trap' refers to a device for capturing.
Common Phrases and Expressions
set a mousetrap:
To put in place a strategy or device to catch someone or something.
walk into a mousetrap:
To get caught in a difficult situation or trap.
Related Words
trap:
A device or enclosure designed to catch or hold animals.
net:
A device made of fabric, rope, or wire used to capture animals or objects.
Slang Meanings of mousetrap
Meaning: A clever scheme that entraps someone.
Example Sentence: That business pitch was a real mousetrap designed to lure in investors.
Meaning: A situation where one is caught off guard.
Example Sentence: I fell right into the mousetrap of that prank.