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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

  • (..) a major situation here. I know you know that. I gotta talk to Daddy and find out what he wants done. All I know is what Vic told me. The place turned into a bullet-fest. He took a cop hostage just to get the fuck outta there. Get up! Get up! Do I sound like I'm fuckin' jokin'? (..)
    1992 Reservoir Dogs