Dragnet: meaning, definitions and examples
๐จ
dragnet
[ หdrรฆษกหnษt ]
law enforcement
A dragnet is a systematic, organized method of capturing criminals or suspects by surrounding an area and searching it thoroughly. It is often employed by police and law enforcement agencies to apprehend individuals who are wanted for crimes. The term implies a comprehensive approach, where numerous officers and resources are involved to ensure a complete sweep. This can include roadblocks, increased surveillance, and coordinated efforts across various departments.
Synonyms
manhunt, roadblock, search operation
Examples of usage
- The police set up a dragnet after the bank robbery.
- A dragnet was initiated to find the escaped convict.
- Authorities conducted a dragnet operation at the border.
- The city's dragnet led to several arrests over the weekend.
Translations
Translations of the word "dragnet" in other languages:
๐ต๐น rede de arrasto
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคพเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช Abfangnetz
๐ฎ๐ฉ jaring
๐บ๐ฆ ัััะบะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ sieฤ
๐ฏ๐ต ็ถฒ
๐ซ๐ท filet
๐ช๐ธ red
๐น๐ท aฤ
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ทธ๋ฌผ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุดุจูุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ sรญลฅ
๐ธ๐ฐ sieลฅ
๐จ๐ณ ็ฝ
๐ธ๐ฎ mreลพa
๐ฎ๐ธ net
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะพั
๐ฌ๐ช แฅแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ ลษbษkษ
๐ฒ๐ฝ red
Word origin
The term 'dragnet' originated in the early 20th century, combining the words 'drag' and 'net'. The word 'drag' refers to the act of pulling something along a surface, while 'net' refers to a mesh apparatus used to catch or confine something. This metaphorical usage suggests a sweeping effort to capture or ensnare individuals in a wide area. The concept gained popularity particularly in connection with police work and investigations. The use of 'dragnet' in law enforcement became widespread with the advent of radio and other communication technologies that enabled coordinated efforts among officers. The term was further popularized by media, including radio shows and movies, portraying diligent police work to enforce the law.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #36,039, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.
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- 36041 dunking
- 36042 knickerbockers
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