deadfall

Weighted log trap

A deadfall is a trap that kills animals by dropping a heavy weight on them—typically a log or stone triggered when prey disturbs the bait.

The term extends to a tangled mass of fallen trees and branches in a forest: We had to navigate through the deadfall blocking the trail.

In older American usage, a deadfall was also a cheap, disreputable bar or dive.

trap

snare

Device for catching prey

pitfallHidden danger or drawback
triggerWhat initiates action
mechanismMeans by which something operates

bait · set · spring · catch · capture · noose · lure · concealment · game · prey

debris

blowdown

Wind-felled trees

windthrowStorm-uprooted trees
slashAngled line or swipe
brushBristled cleaning tool

tangle · obstruction · hazard · undergrowth · forest floor · accumulation · branches · logs · woodland · thicket

decay

decomposition

Breakdown into simpler parts

rotOrganic breakdown process
fungiSpore-reproducing decomposers
moldForm-giving container

humus · deterioration · breakdown · organic · biodegradation · soil · nutrients · microorganisms · nurse log · habitat

Categories

foresttrees, pine, oak, woods, wood
Forest Termsoak, pine, spruce, fir, cedar
forest featurespine trees, redwoods, old-growth forest, oak trees, sequoias
obstaclesbarriers, block, obstacles, barrier, blockers
trail hazardsrocks, boulders, ruts, mud, loose gravel
trapstrap, bear trap, mousetrap, rat trap, ant trap

Opposites

trap mechanism

deadfalllive trap

Captures animals without harm

snare · spring trap · cage trap · box trap · humane trap

forest state

deadfallstanding timber

Trees still rooted, marketable

establishment quality

deadfallfive-star hotel

Top-rated lodging establishment

Family

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Negative · Rated PG