atrapados
“atrapados” means “trapped” in Spanish (Unable to escape from a place).
trapped, stuck
Also: caught
📝 In Action
Había diez excursionistas atrapados en la cueva.
B1There were ten hikers trapped in the cave.
Los niños se sintieron atrapados en el tráfico por horas.
A2The children felt stuck in traffic for hours.
Estamos atrapados en un círculo vicioso de trabajo y deuda.
B2We are caught in a vicious cycle of work and debt.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: atrapados
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'atrapados'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the verb 'atrapar,' which likely formed by combining the prefix 'a-' (indicating movement toward something) and the older word 'trapa' or 'trapar' (meaning 'to catch' or 'snare'). It has been used in Spanish since the 15th century.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'atrapados' a verb or an adjective?
It is technically the past participle of the verb 'atrapar,' but in everyday conversation, it functions primarily as an adjective, describing the state of being caught or stuck. This form is the masculine plural version.
How do I say 'she is trapped'?
You must change the ending to match the feminine singular noun: 'Ella está atrapada.' The ending must always match the person or thing you are describing.