deathtrap
nounUK /ˈdɛθtɹæp/
Etymology From death + trap.
1
Figuratively, Informal An extremely dangerous location, structure, or device.
- Route 9 is a deathtrap; they should at least put up guard rails.
- Dude, your car is a deathtrap! Get the brakes and the steering fixed.
2
Literature, Media, Publishing A plot device where a villain in a story puts a hero in an elaborate dangerous situation for the purposes of attempting a sadistic murder.
- Related terms
- firetrap