To catch or trap something completely, or to surround with traps.
From 'be-' plus 'trap,' likely from Middle Low German 'trappe.' The combination suggests being thoroughly ensnared or surrounded by trap mechanisms.
The word 'trap' itself comes from Germanic roots that originally meant a type of snare or mechanical device, and 'betrap' intensifies that image of being completely ensnared.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.