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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

(..) Ladies and gentlemen, will you all please get on your knees? NOW would be good! Do as he says! Just so you're aware, the gun is his idea, I'm just a...you know. My hostage. Hostage, yes, that works. That works. So what now? Doing what Moriarty wants, becoming a fugitive. Run! (..)
2012 TvShow: Sherlock Title: The Reichenbach Fall Season: 2 Episode 3