Definition

A method or system used to catch or apprehend people, especially criminals, often involving coordinated efforts by law enforcement.

Example

The police set up a dragnet to catch the suspect after the robbery.

Conversation

Have you heard about the police's new dragnet operation this weekend?

Yeah, I read about it online; they're really trying to catch some suspects.

It's interesting how they coordinate everything with a dragnet approach.

Definitely! It seems effective for getting results quickly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dragnet → It is formed from "drag" (from Old English *draggan*, meaning to pull or draw) and "net" (from Old French *nette*, meaning a mesh or fabric). The word "dragnet" refers to a method of catching or pulling in something, typically used in fishing or law enforcement to capture a wide area.

Memory Tip

Imagine pulling in a wide mesh to catch everything in its path — that's what a dragnet does, pulling in all it can.

Visually Confused Words