Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to hold someone for ransom
idiomatic expression
/tə hoʊld ˈsʌmwʌn fɔr ˈrænsəm/
Definition
To capture someone and demand payment for their release.
Examples
- The kidnappers threatened to hold him for ransom if the family did not pay.
- Police worked tirelessly to secure the safe return of the hostages who had been held for ransom.
- The movie’s plot revolved around a crime syndicate that planned to hold several people for ransom.
Meaning
This phrase refers to the act of illegally seizing a person and requesting a sum of money or something valuable in exchange for their freedom.
Synonyms
- kidnap for ransom
- extort
- take hostage
