Tripwires

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of device or mechanism activated by the tension or pulling of a wire, often used for security purposes
2. A method of triggering an explosive device upon the disturbance of a wire or cord
3. A metaphorical term for unexpected obstacles or pitfalls that can lead to a downfall when set in place

Etymology: "Tripwires" is the plural of "tripwire," a compound formed from "trip" and "wire." The physical object came first: a thin wire stretched close to the ground, so that anyone walking into it stumbles and sets off a device or alarm. That literal sense is the root of the figurative use, in which a hidden obstacle catches an unwary person and brings about a fall. The first element, "trip," traces to the idea of catching a foot and causing a stumble, and "wire" is the familiar metal thread. Joining them produced a precise image: a line of wire placed where feet will land, so that a single unnoticed contact sets something off. Because the metaphor depends entirely on the hidden trap and the sudden tumble, it carries the sense of a small, overlooked snag that can bring down a larger plan.