Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

booby-trap

noun

/ˈbuːbi træp/

Definition

A device designed to catch or harm someone unexpectedly.

Examples

The soldiers set a booby-trap to deter enemy forces from advancing.
In the movie, the protagonist cleverly used a booby-trap to catch the villain off guard.

Meaning

The term refers to an elaborate trap that is set to ensnare or injure someone, often by surprise. It’s commonly used in a military or security context but can be applied metaphorically in various situations.