Trapped

/træpt/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To catch and hold in a confined space; to prevent escape.

The hunters trapped the fox in a cage.

To be caught in a difficult situation from which escape is impossible.

She felt trapped in her job and wanted to find a new path.

To cause (someone) to be in a place or situation where they cannot escape.

The rising waters trapped the campers on the island.

adjective

Confined or unable to escape, often used metaphorically.

He felt trapped in an endless cycle of debt.

Derived from the verb 'trap', which comes from Middle English 'trap(pen)', earlier 'trappe', stemming from Old French 'trappe'

trapped in a corner

In a situation where one has no options.

trapped for time

Lacking sufficient time to make a decision or act.

caught in a trap

To be caught in a difficult or compromising situation.

trap

To catch or obstruct someone or something in a trap.

ensnare

To trap someone in an elaborate or deceptive situation.

Feeling stuck in life or a relationship.

I feel so trapped in this toxic situation.

Being in a bad situation without a way out.

I’m really trapped in this job and don’t know what to do next.