Search Dictionary
Definition of ensnare

ensnare

/ɪnˈsnɛər/
en · snare
Past Simple:ensnared
•
Past Participle:ensnared
•
Present Participle:ensnaring
JUMP TO:

ensnare Lexical Profile

ensnare Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To catch in or as if in a snare or trap; to capture or entangle by means of deception, difficulties, or allure.

Example

"Predatory lending practices often ensnare unsuspecting borrowers in a cycle of mounting debt."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ensnare
Antonyms
View all antonyms for ensnare

• Rhymes for ensnare

• Nearby Words

enslave
enslavement
enslaver
ensnare
ensnarement
ensue
ensuing

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 16th century by combining the prefix 'en-' (meaning 'into') with the noun 'snare', which derives from the Old Norse 'snara' (meaning 'noose' or 'halter').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ensnare. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ensnare
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.