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deadfall

American  
[ded-fawl] / ˈdɛdˌfɔl /

noun

  1. a trap, especially for large game, in which a weight falls on and crushes the prey.

  2. a mass of brush and fallen trees.


deadfall British  
/ ˈdɛdˌfɔːl /

noun

  1. Also called: downfall.  a type of trap, used esp for catching large animals, in which a heavy weight falls to crush the prey

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of deadfall

First recorded in 1605–15; dead + fall

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Then, a video demonstrating an ancient deadfall trap received over a million views.

From New York Times • Feb. 27, 2023

Some deadfall will be allowed to rot, creating new habitat.

From BBC • Feb. 15, 2022

The device’s clever design and battery-powered fans also allow it to emit less smoke than your standard fire pit, regardless of whether you’re burning charcoal or deadfall.

From The Verge • Nov. 8, 2021

Klain said the group typically maintains 250 to 300 miles of trail each year by clearing deadfall, improving drainage and performing other work requested by land managers, including the U.S.

From Washington Times • May 8, 2021

He’d just finished when the cub trotted over and gave the deadfall an inquisitive sniff.

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver

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