mantrap
C1/C2Formal/Literary/Technical (Security)
Definition
Meaning
A dangerous device or situation designed to catch or entrap people, especially men.
1. Historically: a trap with powerful jaws for catching poachers or trespassers. 2. Figuratively: a seductive or alluring woman perceived as dangerous to men (dated/offensive). 3. A physical security barrier, often with inward-opening doors, that traps an intruder in a small space.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The word has evolved from a literal, often brutal, physical device to a specialized security term and a dated figurative use. The figurative sense is now considered sexist and archaic. The core concept is 'entrapment of a person'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the term in historical/security contexts. The figurative sense is equally archaic in both. No significant difference in usage.
Connotations
The historical/literal sense connotes brutality, danger, and punishment. The security sense is neutral and technical. The figurative sense is heavily marked as dated and pejorative.
Frequency
Very low frequency in all contexts. Most likely encountered in historical texts, security literature, or as a metaphorical flourish.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] set/placed a mantrap [optional: in/on Location][Subject] was caught in a mantrapThe [noun] served as a mantrap for [object].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A mantrap for the unwary.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Potentially in corporate security discussions: 'Data centre access is controlled by a biometric mantrap.'
Academic
Found in historical or security studies texts discussing perimeter defence or punitive practices.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
Used in physical security to describe a double-door system (e.g., 'a mantrap airlock') that prevents tailgating.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The old estate was said to have mantrap s hidden in the woods to catch poachers.
- He felt the glamorous party was a mantrap for ambitious young businessmen.
- High-security facilities often use a mantrap, or airlock entry system, to ensure only one person passes at a time.
- The 18th-century landowner was notorious for setting illegal mantrap s, resulting in severe injuries to trespassers.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'man' being 'trapped'. It's a trap specifically for people.
Conceptual Metaphor
DANGER IS A PHYSICAL TRAP / SEDUCTION IS A TRAP (dated)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid калька 'мужская ловушка' for the figurative sense; it's not an idiom. The security term is 'шлюзовая кабина (с контролем доступа)' or 'тамбур-ловушка'. The historical device is 'капкан (для поимки людей)'.
Common Mistakes
- Using the figurative sense as current or non-offensive. Confusing it with 'mousetrap'. Using it as a verb (it's a noun).
Practice
Quiz
In modern technical language, a 'mantrap' most accurately refers to:
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency word. You will most likely encounter it in historical contexts or specialized security literature.
This was a figurative, slang use from the early 20th century, portraying a woman as a dangerous seductress. This usage is now considered deeply offensive and sexist, and is obsolete.
A turnstile allows one-person passage but can often be forced or jumped. A mantrap is a fully enclosed, often locked, vestibule with two doors that cannot be open simultaneously, providing higher security.
No, 'mantrap' is solely a noun. The related verb would be 'to trap'.