noun
pitfall
Pitfall (noun) means a hidden hole dug in the ground as a trap, so that whatever falls in cannot climb out.
noun
1
A hidden hole dug in the ground as a trap, so that whatever falls in cannot climb out.
2
A hidden danger or difficulty that you can easily run into without expecting it.
"It's usually a simple task, but you should know the pitfalls before you attempt it yourself."
3
A commonly used but counterproductive approach or practice.
4
A dip in the ground caused by the collapse of a mine below it.
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Etymology
First recorded in the 14th century, formed from pit and fall in the sense "pit trap, pit snare", from Old English fealle ("trap, snare"), from Proto-Germanic *fallą, *fallaz ("a fall, trap"), from Proto-Indo-European *(s)pōl-. It is cognate with German Falle ("trap, snare").
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of pitfall?
"pitfall" (noun) means a hidden hole dug in the ground as a trap, so that whatever falls in cannot climb out.
What is another word for pitfall?
Other words for "pitfall" include pit, trap, antipattern.
What are the different meanings of pitfall?
"pitfall" has 3 main meanings: 1. A hidden hole dug in the ground as a trap, so that whatever falls in cannot climb out; 2. A hidden danger or difficulty that you can easily run into without expecting it; 3. A commonly used but counterproductive approach or practice.
