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ransom

[ˈrænsəm]

ransom Definition

  • 1a sum of money or other payment demanded or paid for the release of a captive
  • 2the act of freeing someone from captivity by paying a sum of money

Using ransom: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ransom" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The kidnappers demanded a ransom of $1 million for the safe return of the child.

  • Example

    The pirates held the crew for ransom until their demands were met.

  • Example

    The king paid a large ransom to free his son from captivity.

ransom Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for ransom

Phrases with ransom

  • to keep someone captive and demand payment for their release

    Example

    The terrorists held the hostages for ransom, demanding millions of dollars in exchange for their release.

  • to give the demanded payment in exchange for the release of a captive

    Example

    The family had to pay the ransom to get their son back from the kidnappers.

  • a written message demanding payment for the release of a captive

    Example

    The kidnappers left a ransom note at the scene, demanding a large sum of money for the safe return of the victim.

Origins of ransom

from Old French 'rancion', meaning 'payment'

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Summary: ransom in Brief

The term 'ransom' [ˈrænsəm] refers to the payment demanded or paid for the release of a captive, or the act of freeing someone from captivity by paying a sum of money. It is often used in situations involving kidnapping or piracy, as in 'The kidnappers demanded a ransom of $1 million for the safe return of the child.' Phrases like 'hold for ransom' and 'pay the ransom' describe the actions involved in such situations.