English Reference
adjective

trapped

adj.
US /ˈtɹæpt/ UK /tɹˈæpt/ trapped

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    stuck in a place and unable to get out.

    physically confined or caught in a space or device from which escape is impossible.

    Simple

    The hikers were trapped in the cave for three hours until help arrived.

    In context

    Emergency crews worked for hours to reach the passengers who remained trapped inside the wreckage following the derailment.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Psychology

    feeling like you cannot change a bad situation or job.

    experiencing a sense of stagnation or despair due to an inability to alter one's circumstances.

    Simple

    He felt trapped in his office job and dreamed of starting his own business.

    In context

    Many individuals in the study reported feeling trapped by their mounting debt, which led to significant psychological distress and a loss of agency.

Usage trapped beneath · trapped inside · trapped under the rubble

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated