From booby, meaning a fool or naive person, plus trap. The phrase first referred to practical jokes and later came to name concealed devices meant to injure or kill.
From booby, meaning a fool or naive person, plus trap. The phrase first referred to practical jokes and later came to name concealed devices meant to injure or kill.
What does booby trap mean?
A booby trap is a hidden device, trick, or catch that surprises someone when they take an apparently safe action.
Is a booby trap always explosive?
No. It often means a hidden explosive device, but it can also mean a practical joke or figurative catch.
Can booby trap mean a prank?
Yes. The phrase originally referred to practical jokes, though modern use often suggests real danger.
Is booby-trap a verb?
Yes. The related verb means to set a booby trap in, on, or for something, as in a booby-trapped car.
What is the difference between a booby trap and a trap?
A booby trap is usually hidden and triggered by an unsuspecting person's own action.
Where does booby trap come from?
It combines booby, an old word for a fool or naive person, with trap.
Is boobie trap correct?
No. The standard spelling is booby trap for the noun phrase.
Can booby trap be used figuratively?
Yes. A clause, test question, or design flaw can be called a booby trap if it catches careless people.