boobytraps
Concealed harmful devices
Boobytraps are hidden devices designed to harm, kill, or surprise an unsuspecting victim.
A booby trap might be a concealed explosive triggered by a tripwire, or something as simple as a bucket balanced on a door.
The term extends to any hidden danger or trick: The contract was full of legal boobytraps.
To boobytrap is to set such devices: They boobytrapped the entrance.
Makeshift explosive weapon
- tripwireConcealed activation cord
- landmineBuried pressure-activated explosive
- explosiveProne to sudden detonation
- ambushSurprise strike from concealment
concealed · detonator · claymore · grenade · shrapnel · camouflage · perimeter · patrol
Hidden danger or drawback
- snareDevice for catching prey
- catchSeize or snag
- hidden dangerConcealed risk or peril
- gotchaExclamation upon catching someone
fine print · loophole · deception · trick · setup · scheme · manipulation · lure
Playful trick on someone
- gagMouth restraint or jest
- trickDeliberate deception
- bucketOpen-top carrying vessel
- doorHinged room barrier
spring-loaded · glitter bomb · whoopee cushion · scare · surprise · setup · victim · trigger
Urgent warning signal
- intruderUnauthorized person present
- deterrentThing that discourages action
- safeguardPrecaution against harm
- protectionGuarding against harm
surveillance · perimeter · warning · sensor · motion detector · property · trespasser · countermeasure
IED
Makeshift explosive weapon
- tripwireConcealed activation cord
- landmineBuried pressure-activated explosive
- explosiveProne to sudden detonation
ambush · concealed · detonator · claymore · grenade · shrapnel · camouflage · perimeter · patrol · insurgent
pitfall
Hidden danger or drawback
- snareDevice for catching prey
- catchSeize or snag
- hidden dangerConcealed risk or peril
gotcha · fine print · loophole · deception · trick · setup · scheme · manipulation · lure · bait
prank
Playful trick on someone
door · spring-loaded · glitter bomb · whoopee cushion · scare · surprise · setup · victim · trigger · harmless
alarm
Urgent warning signal
- intruderUnauthorized person present
- deterrentThing that discourages action
- safeguardPrecaution against harm
protection · surveillance · perimeter · warning · sensor · motion detector · property · trespasser · countermeasure · defense
boobytrapssafety measures
Precautions against danger
safeguards · security features · gifts · rewards · welcome mats
boobytrapswarning systems
Mechanisms signaling potential danger
alarms · advance notice · fair warning · sirens · flashing lights