Synonyms of entrap

entrap

verb

in-ˈtrap 

as in to trap

to catch or hold as if in a net

a string of inconsistent statements and outright lies that finally entrapped the witness

Synonyms & Similar Words

• trap
• tangle
• ensnare
• enmesh
• entangle
• mesh
• snare
• involve
• capture
• net
• catch up
• immesh
• implicate
• ensnarl
• entoil
• embroil
• birdlime
• collar
• mire
• bag

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• disentangle
• extricate
• detach
• disengage
• liberate
• untangle
• free
• clear

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb entrap contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of entrap are bag, capture, catch, ensnare, snare, and trap. While all these words mean "to come to possess or control by or as if by seizing," entrap and ensnare more often are figurative.

entrapped the witness with a trick question

a sting operation that ensnared burglars

When might bag be a better fit than entrap?

The words bag and entrap are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bag implies shooting down a fleeing or distant prey.

bagged a brace of pheasants

When could capture be used to replace entrap?

The meanings of capture and entrap largely overlap; however, capture suggests taking by overcoming resistance or difficulty.

capture an enemy stronghold

When is catch a more appropriate choice than entrap?

In some situations, the words catch and entrap are roughly equivalent. However, catch implies the seizing of something in motion or in flight or in hiding.

caught the dog as it ran by

How does the word trap relate to other synonyms for entrap?

Trap, snare, entrap, and ensnare imply seizing by some device that holds the one caught at the mercy of the captor. Trap and snare apply more commonly to physical seizing.

trap animals

snared butterflies with a net

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of entrap

Soon after the hearing, Bolsonaro’s son Eduardo gave a speech from the floor of the legislature, accusing her of seducing sources to entrap his father. —Jon Lee Anderson, New Yorker, 7 Apr. 2025

In the book, Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates) chops off romance novelist Paul Sheldon's feet as part of her efforts to entrap him permanently in her home. —Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 29 Apr. 2025

Nearly 4 years in jail on choking charges Since he’s been in jail, Bishop has sent letters to courthouse officials — including Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Carla Archie and Clerk of Court Elisa Chinn-Gary — saying Blackwell, police and judges entrapped him by filing false charges. —Julia Coin, Charlotte Observer, 2 Apr. 2025

Gabi and Robinson head to the diner to entrap Maggie with yet another plate of cheese fries. —Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2025