Synonyms of ensnare

ensnare

verb

in-ˈsner 

as in to trap

to catch or hold as if in a net

parked just out of view, the state trooper was lying in wait to ensnare unwary speeders

Synonyms & Similar Words

• trap
• tangle
• entrap
• enmesh
• entangle
• snare
• mesh
• involve
• net
• capture
• ensnarl
• catch up
• implicate
• entoil
• embroil
• collar
• mire
• birdlime
• bag

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• disentangle
• extricate
• detach
• disengage
• liberate
• untangle
• free
• clear

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb ensnare contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of ensnare are bag, capture, catch, entrap, snare, and trap. While all these words mean "to come to possess or control by or as if by seizing," trap, snare, entrap, ensnare imply seizing by some device that holds the one caught at the mercy of the captor. trap and snare apply more commonly to physical seizing.

trap animals

snared butterflies with a net

When can bag be used instead of ensnare?

While in some cases nearly identical to ensnare, bag implies shooting down a fleeing or distant prey.

bagged a brace of pheasants

When is it sensible to use capture instead of ensnare?

In some situations, the words capture and ensnare are roughly equivalent. However, capture suggests taking by overcoming resistance or difficulty.

capture an enemy stronghold

When could catch be used to replace ensnare?

Although the words catch and ensnare have much in common, catch implies the seizing of something in motion or in flight or in hiding.

caught the dog as it ran by

How are the words entrap and ensnare related?

Both entrap and ensnare more often are figurative.

entrapped the witness with a trick question

a sting operation that ensnared burglars

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of ensnare

The legal team’s withdrawal from the case marks the latest update in the tangled knot of litigation that has ensnared the city and Carollo for years, stemming from the same general allegations levied by Little Havana businessmen Bill Fuller and Martin Pinilla. —Tess Riski april 14, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2026

The narrative was positive for the Gibbs organization, which has been ensnared in some unflattering headlines after suing former competition director Chris Gabehart for breach of contract. —ABC News, 13 Apr. 2026

Canucks defenseman Zeev Buium sent a laser through traffic that Dostál ensnared to leave the score at 2-1 through 40 minutes. —Andrew Knoll, Oc Register, 13 Apr. 2026

It's ensnared all kinds of products, including phones, laptops, and consoles, forcing consumers to pay more or hold off on purchases. —Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 10 Apr. 2026