Entrap Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Legal Context

• In legal terms, entrapment refers to a law enforcement tactic where a person is induced to commit a crime they would not typically engage in.
• The concept of entrapment is often debated in courts to determine the legality of an arrest.
• Famous cases in U.S. law highlight disputes regarding the definition and boundaries of entrapment.

Psychology

• Psychologists study how individuals can feel entrapped in their thoughts, leading to anxiety or depression.
• This feeling of entrapment can arise in situations like unhealthy relationships or stressful jobs.
• Understanding emotional entrapment can help individuals seek solutions and regain a sense of control.

Literature

• Entrapment often appears in literature, symbolizing a character's struggle against restrictive circumstances or forces.
• Classic novels explore themes of entrapment related to social norms, such as in 'Jane Eyre' with its critique of gender roles.
• Writers use entrapment to build tension, making readers empathize with characters as they seek freedom.

Pop Culture

• Movies often depict entrapment in thrillers or mysteries where characters must find a way to escape from dire situations.
• Popular films such as ‘The Fugitive’ highlight the nuances of being wrongfully entangled in crime and justice.
• Reality shows sometimes play on the theme of entrapment, placing contestants in difficult situations to test their limits.

Main points about word origin

• The word originates from the Latin 'intrapare', which means to catch or trap.
• It was first used in the English language around the early 15th century, suggesting a focus on physical or metaphorical capturing.
• The prefix 'en-' implies putting into or causing, enhancing the sense of trapping.

The word 'entrap' originated from the Middle English 'entrapen', which is a combination of 'en-' (in) and 'trap'. The concept of trapping or catching someone or something has been present throughout history in various forms, from physical traps used in hunting to metaphorical traps in social or legal contexts.

See also: entrapment, trap, trapped, trappers, trapping.

At rank #28,013, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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