Tripwire - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A tripwire is a hidden wire or device that triggers an alarm, trap, or action when disturbed. It is often used for security, surveillance, or in military contexts to detect movement.
Definition:
A wire or device that triggers an alarm or trap when disturbed.
Synonyms:
trigger, snare, alarm, booby trap
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
safety measure, safeguard
Common Collocations:
set a tripwire, trigger the tripwire, military tripwire, hidden tripwire, electronic tripwire
Derivatives:
tripwires (plural), tripwired (past tense)
Usage Tips:
Use "tripwire" literally for physical traps or metaphorically for early warning systems.
Common Phrases:
set off the tripwire, tripwire alarm, walk into a tripwire
Etymology:
From "trip" (to stumble) + "wire," dating to early 20th century military usage.
Examples:
- 1. The soldier carefully avoided the hidden tripwire.
- 2. The burglars triggered the tripwire and set off the alarm.
- 3. She used a tripwire to protect her campsite from animals.
- 4. The spy’s escape plan included a tripwire as a distraction.