pitfall

noun

pit·​fall ˈpit-ˌfȯl 

1

: trap entry 1, snare

specifically : a pit flimsily covered or camouflaged and used to capture and hold animals or people

2

: a hidden or not easily recognized danger or difficulty

Synonyms of pitfall

• risk
• hitch
• snag

Examples of pitfall in a Sentence

buying a house can be full of pitfalls for the unwary

one of the pitfalls of ignorance is that people will also assume you're stupid

Recent Examples on the Web

Rather than trying to navigate the pitfalls of vessel sinks, many designers prefer under-mount or drop-in sinks, which allow for easier cleaning and a more modern and seamless appearance. —Marisa Suzanne Martin, The Spruce, 16 Feb. 2026

Our experts warn against these common pitfalls when steam cleaning. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 15 Feb. 2026

The 'fun' parent loves to play and always says yes to every game—but there are pitfalls to this parenting dynamic. —Jana Pollack, Parents, 15 Feb. 2026

Coleslaw also suffers from the same pitfalls when purchased premade from the store. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 14 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for pitfall

• aldol
• armhole
• atoll
• awol
• backhaul
• banal
• baseball
• befall
• cabal
• catchall
• cecal
• centrale

Kids Definition

pitfall

noun

pit·​fall ˈpit-ˌfȯl 

1

: trap entry 1 sense 1, snare

especially : a covered or camouflaged pit used to capture animals or people

2

: a danger or difficulty that is hidden or is not easily recognized