Entrammel

/ɛnˈtræməl/ verb

Definition

To trap or restrain within a net, or to restrict someone's freedom or ability to move or act.

Etymology

From 'en-' (in) + 'trammel' (a fishing net or restriction), from Old French 'tramail.' Used metaphorically since the 1600s to describe being trapped or constrained.

Kelly Says

Shakespeare used 'entrammel' to describe souls trapped in bodies and love trapped in hearts—it's a poetic word for being caught in something you can't escape from.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.