Definition

1. Noun:
   • A hidden explosive device designed to harm or kill when triggered: A "booby trap" is a concealed explosive or mechanical device, such as a mine, that is set to activate when an unsuspecting person disturbs it.
   • An unforeseen or unexpected difficulty or trick: In a broader, non-literal sense, a "booby trap" can refer to any hidden problem or deceptive situation that causes surprise or trouble.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Literal - Explosive Device):
  • The soldiers carefully cleared the path of any booby traps.
  • The old building was rigged with a booby trap on the door.
• Noun (Figurative - Hidden Problem):
  • The contract was full of legal booby traps for the unwary.
  • The final exam question was a real booby trap for students who didn't read carefully.

Advanced Usage

• "To be booby-trapped" (verb phrase, passive): To be fitted with a hidden explosive device.
  • The vehicle was booby-trapped and exploded when the engine started.
• "To booby-trap" (verb): To set or install a hidden explosive device.
  • The retreating forces booby-trapped the bridge.

Variants and Related Words

• Trap (n/v): A more general term for a device or scheme for catching someone or something unawares.
• Ambush (n/v): A surprise attack from a concealed position.
• Snare (n/v): A trap for catching animals, often used metaphorically for a trick.

Synonyms

• Landmine (specifically for ground-based explosive traps)
• Ambush (for the concept of a surprise attack)
• Pitfall (for the figurative meaning of a hidden danger or error)

Related Phrases

• "A trap for the unwary": A situation or detail likely to cause problems for those who are not careful.
  • The complex tax form is a trap for the unwary.

Related Idioms

• "To walk into a trap": To unknowingly enter a dangerous or disadvantageous situation.
  • By signing without a lawyer, he walked right into their trap.

Noun

1. an unforeseen or unexpected or surprising difficulty
2. an explosive mine hidden underground; explodes when stepped on or driven over