hostage

Definition

  • noun: a person who is captured by someone who demands that certain things be done before the captured person is freed
  • noun: a person held by one party in a conflict as a pledge pending the fulfillment of an agreement
  • sometimes used figuratively
  • synonyms: bail, bond, captive

Examples

  • a neighborhood being 'held hostage' to fear [=a neighborhood controlled or dominated by fear]

  • The terrorists demanded a plane and a pilot in exchange for the 'hostages'.

  • The 'hostage' crisis is now entering its second week.

Movie quotes

  • (..) They're in the back, aren't they? - Just me. - I'm really sorry. She was like a crouching tiger. - You got taken hostage by a twelve year old? Well, girls mature faster than boys. She is way ahead of where I was at that age. - Twelve's the new twenty. Gun please. - Like you would ever use it.. (..)
    2009 Zombieland