mantrap

See also: man-trap

English

Alternative forms

Etymology

From man +‎ trap.

Pronunciation

  • Audio (General Australian):(file)

Noun

mantrap (plural mantraps)

  1. A mechanical device for catching trespassers.
    • 1869, Alfred Russel Wallace, The Malay Archipelago, volume I, London: Macmillan and Co., page 306:
      A prevalent custom is the "pomali," exactly equivalent to the "taboo" of the Pacific islanders, and equally respected. It is used on the commonest occasions, and a few palm leaves stuck outside a garden as a sign of the "pomali" will preserve its produce from thieves as effectually as the threatening notice of man-traps, spring guns, or a savage dog would do with us.
    • 2022, Ian McEwan, Lessons, page 319:
      The space had been cleared of landmines and mantraps.
  2. A small space with two sets of interlocking doors, such that the first set of doors must close before the second set opens, used to restrict access.
  3. (slang) A woman who is dangerously seductive to men.
    • 1858, Tom Taylor, Our American Cousin:
      "Don't know the manners of good society, eh? Wal, I guess I know enough to turn you inside out, old gal — you sockdologizing old man-trap."
    • 2011, J. F. Bone, The Lani People:
      If anything, she was worse since she had enough money to implement her desires. They were merely in the trade for business reasons. No—Eloise would be something to steer clear of. Alexander was right. She was a mantrap.

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