light trap

noun

1
: a device that allows movement of a sliding part or passage of a person (as into a darkroom) but excludes light
2
: a device for collecting or destroying insects that consists of a bright light in association with a trapping or killing medium

Examples of light trap in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ohio State University Extension has a simple design for light traps, which may be handy for those who could never hurt a bug. Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press, 31 Oct. 2024 Build or buy a light trap to attract ladybugs using an LED, blue or UV light. Maia Pandey, Journal Sentinel, 28 Oct. 2024 But a microphone simply listens, a camera trap quietly watches for movement and snaps a picture, and a light trap silently attracts insects. WIRED, 17 Oct. 2023 For those who prioritize safety, a light trap like DynaTrap Flylight Indoor Insect Trap will be the best fit. Rachel Ahrnsen, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Oct. 2023 Sound recorder and automatic light trap for recording voices and night insects. WIRED, 17 Oct. 2023 While this team harvested DNA directly from insects caught in light traps, others may collect environmental DNA, or eDNA, that animals leave behind in soil, air, and water. WIRED, 17 Oct. 2023 To make the light traps, scientists shine a laser through a lens above a chamber containing neutral atoms. Katherine Wright, Scientific American, 28 Sep. 2023 This means scientists have to work at night, using light traps to attract the things. WIRED, 12 June 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of light trap was in 1882

Dictionary Entries Near light trap

Cite this Entry

“Light trap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light%20trap. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

light trap

noun
: a device for collecting or destroying insects by attracting them to a light and trapping or killing them

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