Trapper: meaning, definitions and examples

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trapper

 

[ˈtræpər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal hunting

A trapper is a person who catches animals using traps for fur, meat, or other purposes. This occupation was especially prominent in the 18th and 19th centuries in North America, where trappers played a crucial role in the fur trade.

Synonyms

catcher, fur collector, hunter.

Examples of usage

  • The trapper set his lines along the riverbank.
  • In the winter, the trapper would check his traps daily.
  • Many trappers risked their lives in harsh conditions.
  • The famous trapper taught the young scouts survival skills.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the term 'trap' and dates back to the early 15th century, referring to devices used for capturing.
  • It originally referred to the act of capturing rather than the person carrying it out.
  • In different languages, similar terms exist; for example, French has 'attraper,' which means to catch.

History

  • In North America, trappers became essential in the fur trade, significantly impacting the economy and interactions with Indigenous peoples.
  • The 19th century was a golden age for trapping, particularly in the Rocky Mountain region, where many famous trappers emerged.
  • Famous figures like John Colter, who was among the first Euro-American trappers, explored parts of present-day Yellowstone National Park.

Culture

  • Trappers are often romanticized in American folklore, depicted as rugged individuals living in harmony with nature.
  • In popular media, they appear in films, books, and series that explore the frontier lifestyle, such as 'The Revenant,' which showcases the harsh trapping life.
  • The term 'trapper' is linked to outdoor culture, where survival skills and respect for wildlife are central themes.

Legal Aspects

  • Regulations exist surrounding trapping to protect wildlife populations and habitats, which vary from one region to another.
  • Licenses are often required for trappers to ensure responsible and ethical practices in animal management.
  • Some species are protected by law, meaning trappers must be aware of local regulations to avoid catching endangered animals.

Modern Perspectives

  • Today, trapping is often seen in the context of wildlife management, pest control, and sustainable practices.
  • There are debates about ethical trapping methods versus traditional techniques, emphasizing animal welfare.
  • Some modern trappers are focusing on educational aspects, teaching skills to younger generations interested in conservation.

Translations

Translations of the word "trapper" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caçador de animais

🇮🇳 जाल डालने वाला

🇩🇪 Fänger

🇮🇩 penjebak

🇺🇦 ловець

🇵🇱 pułapka

🇯🇵 罠猟師

🇫🇷 trappeur

🇪🇸 trapper

🇹🇷 tuzakçı

🇰🇷 덫잡이

🇸🇦 صياد الفخاخ

🇨🇿 pastýř

🇸🇰 lovec

🇨🇳 捕兽者

🇸🇮 zajemalec

🇮🇸 fanga

🇰🇿 тұзақшы

🇬🇪 ჭკუა

🇦🇿 tələyə düşən

🇲🇽 trapper

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,263, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.