mousetrap
mousetrap Lexical Profile
mousetrap Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A spring-loaded or enclosed device designed specifically for catching and typically killing mice.
"He baited the mousetrap with a small piece of peanut butter before setting it carefully behind the stove."
A situation, scheme, or ploy designed to trick or lure someone into a disadvantageous or vulnerable position.
"The heavily discounted introductory software offer turned out to be a financial mousetrap with exorbitant hidden fees."
• verb
To trick, lure, or deceive someone into a difficult, vulnerable, or disadvantageous situation.
"The experienced defense attorney expertly mousetrapped the witness into contradicting his earlier sworn testimony."
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed as a compound of 'mouse' and 'trap', dating back to Middle English 'mous trappe' in the late 15th century. Its figurative use for a scheme that lures someone into trouble dates to the late 16th century.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.