Definition

A wire or line that is set up to activate a trap or device when someone or something touches it.

Example

The soldiers set up a tripwire to alert them of any intruders.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new escape room with the tripwire traps?

Yeah, it sounds intense! I love a good challenge.

I wonder how they set up the tripwire without it being too obvious.

That’s the fun part! It keeps you on your toes during the game.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tripwire → The word is formed from "trip" (from Old English *tryppan*, meaning to stumble or fall) and "wire" (from Old English *wir*, meaning a thin, flexible strand of metal). The term "tripwire" refers to a wire that, when tripped over, causes a mechanism to activate, often used in traps or alarms.

Memory Tip

Imagine a wire that causes someone to 'stumble' ('trip') when they accidentally step on it — that's how a tripwire works.

Visually Confused Words