n. [ From Spring, v. i.: cf. G. sprenkel, Prov. E. springle. ] A noose fastened to an elastic body, and drawn close with a sudden spring, whereby it catches a bird or other animal; a gin; a snare. [ 1913 Webster ]
As a woodcock to mine own springe. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. t. To catch in a springe; to insnare. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]
v. t. [ OE. sprengen. See Sprinkle. ] To sprinkle; to scatter. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]
He would sowen some difficulty,
Or springen cockle in our cleane corn. Chaucer. [ 1913 Webster ]
n.