captors

word · lemma: captor

Definition

People who take or keep someone prisoner, usually by force.

Usage & Nuances

Most often used in news, formal or crime-related contexts, especially about kidnappings or hostage situations. Not used for legal police arrests. Common collocations: 'escaped from their captors,' 'the captors demanded a ransom.'

Example Sentences

The captors kept the hostages in a small room.

basic

The police are looking for the captors.

basic

After one week, the captors released the prisoner.

basic

She managed to escape from her captors in the middle of the night.

natural

The captors demanded a large ransom from the family.

natural

Rumors say the captors have moved to another country.

natural