as in traps
to catch or hold as if in a net
parked just out of view, the state trooper was lying in wait to ensnare unwary speeders
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Recent Examples of ensnares
His case also lays bare a US immigration system that routinely subjects migrants to prolonged detention under harsh conditions – one that human rights organizations say overwhelmingly ensnares Black and brown people far from the public spotlight.
—
Kara Fox, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
Chasing records can be a trap that ensnares parks from commissioning more engaging and enduring coaster designs.
—Robert Niles, Oc Register, 6 Jan. 2026
Both reject the compound interest trap that ensnares millions in traditional credit products.
—Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
Their risky bet ensnares another woman, Hui-yeon, who becomes entangled in their escalating deceit.
—Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 3 Sep. 2019
Kara Fox, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
Chasing records can be a trap that ensnares parks from commissioning more engaging and enduring coaster designs.
—Robert Niles, Oc Register, 6 Jan. 2026
Both reject the compound interest trap that ensnares millions in traditional credit products.
—Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
Their risky bet ensnares another woman, Hui-yeon, who becomes entangled in their escalating deceit.
—Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 3 Sep. 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ensnares
Verb
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Sokolowski says leaving it wet or bunched on the floor traps water and encourages mold, mildew, and odor, which break down fibers over time.—
Madeline Buiano,
Martha Stewart,
6 Feb. 2026
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In the winter, warmer air sits above the valley level and colder air lowers to the valley floor, creating a lid that traps the fog, frequently for days or weeks.—
Janet Loehrke,
USA Today,
5 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
Wire pin or slicker brushes work best for dogs with long hair that tangles easily.—
BestReviews,
Mercury News,
7 Nov. 2025
Verb
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This superb thriller about an obsessed fan (Kathy Bates) who rescues, and then entraps, a best-selling author (James Caan) still stands as an edge-of-your-seat experience.—
Julie Hinds,
Freep.com,
15 Dec. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Ensnares.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ensnares. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.
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