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Definition of pitfall

pitfall

/ˈpɪt.fɔːl/
pit · fall
Plural:pitfalls
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pitfall Lexical Profile

pitfall Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A hidden or unsuspected danger, difficulty, or error that is easy to fall into during a process or undertaking.

Example

"Financial advisors help first-time homebuyers avoid the common pitfalls of taking on an adjustable-rate mortgage."

2

A covered or camouflaged pit dug in the ground to serve as a trap for animals or people.

Example

"Entomologists often place small pitfall traps in the soil to sample ground-dwelling beetles and spiders."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

pitchy
piteous
piteously
pitfall
pith
pithily
pithy

Word Origin & Etymology

Originating in Middle English as 'pitfalle', the word combines 'pit' (from Old English 'pytt', meaning a hole) and 'fall' (from Old English 'fealle', meaning a trap or snare), originally referring to a concealed pit or falling-door trap used to catch wild animals.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pitfall. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pitfall
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