caltrap
/ˈkæltræp/
noun
- A small, spiked metal device used in warfare to slow down enemy soldiers, horses, or vehicles by injuring their feet or tires.
- The ancient army scattered caltraps on the road to stop the cavalry charge.
- During the siege, defenders threw caltraps into the moat to prevent attackers from crossing.
- Modern police sometimes use caltraps to puncture the tires of fleeing vehicles.
- A plant with sharp, spiny fruits or seeds that can injure animals or people who step on them.
- Farmers consider the caltrap a nuisance because its spines hurt livestock.
- Hikers need to watch out for caltraps growing along the trail in dry regions.
- The caltrap plant's seed pods are so sharp they can puncture bicycle tires.
Synonyms