Definition

A person who participates in the sport of shooting clay targets that are launched into the air.

Example

The trapshooter aimed carefully before pulling the trigger to hit the flying target.

Conversation

Have you ever tried trapshooting before?

No, but I’ve heard it can be really fun.

I went with a friend last weekend, and I got to meet a professional trapshooter.

That sounds amazing! I’d love to give it a shot sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Trapshooter → It is formed from "trap" (from Middle English *trappe*, meaning a device for catching animals) and "shooter" (from "shoot" which comes from Old English *sceotan*, meaning to discharge a projectile). The word "trapshooter" refers to a person who shoots at clay targets that are launched from a trap, simulating the flight of birds.

Memory Tip

Imagine a person using a device ('trap') to launch targets into the air, and then 'shooting' at them — that's what a trapshooter does.

Visually Confused Words