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tripwire

/trɪpwaɪər/ noun · British & US
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What does tripwire mean?

noun

A wire stretched across a path or area to trip up people or animals, or a device or system that triggers an alarm or other response when triggered. A plot twist or surprise in a story or film.

Example

"The hikers triggered the tripwire and fell into the hidden pit."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymologically related

Synonyms for tripwire

Antonyms of tripwire

Rhymes with tripwire