mantraps
Devices catching intruders
Mantraps are devices designed to catch or injure trespassers—historically spring-loaded steel jaws hidden on private land, now illegal in most jurisdictions.
The term extends to security vestibules with interlocking doors that trap unauthorized entrants: The bank's mantrap prevented tailgating.
Figuratively, any situation designed to ensnare the unwary: The contract was full of legal mantraps.
Device for catching prey
- pitfallHidden danger or drawback
- tripwireConcealed activation cord
- deadfallTrap using falling weight
- trapdoorHinged floor panel
gin · concealed · triggered · mechanical · baited · camouflaged · hidden · trespasser
Confined, bordered space
- cageBarred confinement structure
- penInk-filled writing tool
- holding cellTemporary detention room
- detentionTemporary official holding
captivity · restraint · containment · airlock · vestibule · sally port · interlock · entrapment
Serious threat of harm
- hazardSource of potential harm
- jeopardyRisk of harm
- threatIndication of potential harm
- menaceSource of potential harm
risk · vulnerability · exposure · warning · injury · harm · liability · precaution
Restricting resource availability selectively
- turnstileRotating single-passage barrier
- authenticationConfirming genuine identity
- checkpointInspection station on route
- perimeterShape's outer edge length
intrusion detection · entry point · badge reader · restricted area · surveillance · biometrics · security gate · guard station
snare
Device for catching prey
trapdoor · gin · concealed · triggered · mechanical · baited · camouflaged · hidden · trespasser · poacher
enclosure
Confined, bordered space
- cageBarred confinement structure
- penInk-filled writing tool
- holding cellTemporary detention room
detention · captivity · restraint · containment · airlock · vestibule · sally port · interlock · entrapment · cornered
peril
Serious threat of harm
menace · risk · vulnerability · exposure · warning · injury · harm · liability · precaution · treacherous
access control
Restricting resource availability selectively
- turnstileRotating single-passage barrier
- authenticationConfirming genuine identity
- checkpointInspection station on route
perimeter · intrusion detection · entry point · badge reader · restricted area · surveillance · biometrics · security gate · guard station · screening
- security gatesturnstiles, boom gates, toll gates, entry gates, automatic gates
- securitysecurity guard, security cameras, alarm system, security system, lock
mantrapsalarms
Signals indicating danger
warning systems · warning signs · security cameras · sirens · alert systems
mantrapssafe passage
Protected transit through danger
escape routes · exits · open doors · freedom · safety features
mantrapswelcome mats
Entryway floor coverings
safety nets · escape routes · emergency exits · sanctuaries · refuges