ensnare

[ en-snair ]

verb (used with object)

, en·snared, en·snar·ing.

1. to capture in, or involve as in, a snare:

   to be ensnared by lies; to ensnare birds.

   Synonyms: enmesh, entangle, entrap

   Antonyms: release

ensnare

/ ɪnˈsnɛə /

verb

1. to catch or trap in a snare
2. to trap or gain power over someone by dishonest or underhand means

Derived Forms

• enˈsnarer, noun
• enˈsnarement, noun

Other Words From

• en·snarement noun
• en·snarer noun
• en·snaring·ly adverb
• unen·snared adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ensnare¹

First recorded in 1585–95; en- ¹ + snare ¹

Example Sentences

Similar to Columbo, who on occasion sported a tuxedo to ensnare a suspect, Elsbeth has already dressed up this season to attend the opera and gone in costume as Holly Golightly from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” for Halloween.

From Los Angeles Times

He likely used his job to ensnare at least one of his victims: Pamela Jean Lambson met Alcala in October 1977, and former Marin County Det.

From Los Angeles Times

Shows like “9-1-1” are appealing because they can put characters through increasingly improbable if not quite impossible situations — the kind that might ensnare a new fan eight seasons in — while relying on friendships, romances and other more ordinary storytelling devices to hold one’s interested between disasters..

From Los Angeles Times

“Your statutory interpretation has force,” Kavanaugh told the solicitor general, then suggested that he previously voted against the rule because it might ensnare innocent people.

From Slate

It was another sign of the cultivating anger, the political knotweed that would soon flourish and ensnare Vaughan Gething.

From BBC

Related Words

• cheat
• embroil
• enmesh
• entangle
• entrap
• mislead
• snare