a device in which something (usually an animal) can be caught and penned
"The hunter set a small trap near the rabbit burrow to catch it before dawn."
drain consisting of a U-shaped section of drainpipe that holds liquid and so prevents a return flow of sewer gas
"The plumber installed a P-trap under the sink to prevent foul sewer gases from entering the kitchen."
a device to hurl clay pigeons into the air for trapshooters
"The clay target launcher sits on the roof of the barn, ready to fire the next bird for the competitors."
the act of concealing yourself and lying in wait to attack by surprise
"The hunter set up a silent trap, waiting patiently until the deer wandered close enough to strike."
a light two-wheeled carriage
"The old trap rattled down the cobblestone street, carrying the market vendor to his stall."
A machine or other device designed to catch (and sometimes kill) animals, either by holding them in a container, or by catching hold of part of the body.
"The acronym TRAP stands for Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers, a set of laws critics argue are designed to restrict access rather than ensure safety."
A dark coloured igneous rock, now used to designate any non-volcanic, non-granitic igneous rock; trap rock.
The trapezius muscle.
Acronym of targeted regulation of abortion providers.
In plain English: A trap is something designed to catch and hold someone or an animal so they cannot escape.
"The hunter set up an old tire trap to catch any stray animals in his yard."
Usage: Use "trap" as a noun when referring specifically to the physical device used for catching animals or objects, rather than using it loosely for any situation of being caught. Distinguish this concrete meaning from abstract uses where synonyms like "snare," "entrapment," or simply "capture" might better describe the action or state without implying a mechanical tool.
to hold fast or prevent from moving
"The child was pinned under the fallen tree"
To physically capture, to catch in a trap or traps, or something like a trap.
"The groom trapped his racehorse in silks and bright ribbons before the start of the derby."
To dress with ornaments; to adorn (especially said of horses).
In plain English: To trap someone is to catch them so they cannot escape or get away.
"The dog managed to trap itself under the table by getting its tail caught in the door."
The word "trap" comes from Old English and originally meant a snare or device for catching animals. Its meaning shifted over time to refer specifically to the mechanism used in hunting before entering modern usage.