mousetrap: Meaning and Definition of

mouse•trap

1. a trap for mice, esp. one consisting of a rectangular wooden base on which a metal spring is mounted.
2. a device, machine, or the like whose structure or function suggests a trap for mice.
3. a device, system, or stratagem for detecting and catching someone in an unauthorized or illegal act.
4. trap (def. 11).
5. to make or offer a superior product.

1. traffic cops mousetrapping drunken drivers.
1. to trap or snare:traffic cops mousetrapping drunken drivers.
2. to manipulate by devious or clever means; trick or outwit:to mousetrap the witness into a contradiction.
2. trap (def. 20).