Entrapped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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entrapped
[ɪnˈtræpt ]
Definition
being caught
Entrapped refers to the act of being caught or trapped in a situation or by a physical barrier. It often implies that the individual or thing is unable to escape due to constraints placed upon them. This term can be used in various contexts, including both literal and metaphorical situations. Commonly, it is associated with entrapment in legal situations or in scenarios where one feels trapped in a difficult circumstance.
Synonyms
captured, caught, ensnared, immobilized, trapped.
Examples of usage
- The animal was entrapped in a net.
- She felt entrapped by her responsibilities.
- The researcher found himself entrapped in his own experiment.
- They were entrapped by the sudden change in weather.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling entrapped can lead to anxiety or stress, as individuals may feel they have no control.
- In psychology, it often describes situations where choices seem limited, making decision-making difficult.
Literature
- Entrapment is a common theme in stories, representing a character's struggle against circumstances.
- Classic novels often explore characters who feel trapped by society's expectations or their own desires.
Pop Culture
- Movies often feature plots where characters find themselves entrapped in dangerous situations, like thrillers or horror films.
- Video games sometimes include levels where players must find a way to escape a trap to move forward.
Law
- Entrapment is also a legal term, referring to a situation where law enforcement tricks someone into committing a crime.
- Defining entrapment can be complex, as it raises questions about free will versus coercion.
Origin of 'entrapped'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'trap', which means to catch or hold something.
- Adding 'en-' makes it mean 'to put into a state of', so it literally means 'put into a trap'.
The term 'entrapped' is derived from the verb 'trap,' which has its origins in the Middle English word 'trappe,' meaning a snare or a device to catch animals. The prefix 'en-' is added to indicate a state of being put into a particular condition. The use of 'entrapped' has evolved over time, from its literal sense of capturing animals to more abstract applications, particularly in psychological and legal contexts. In modern usage, it is frequently employed to describe situations where individuals feel confined or limited by external factors, reflecting a broader cultural discourse on freedom and autonomy. The concept of entrapment has significant implications in law enforcement and legal definitions, particularly concerning the ethics of inducing a person to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. Its origins demonstrate the interplay between language evolution and social context, illustrating how words take on new dimensions as they become embedded in societal norms.