hostage
word
Definition
A hostage is a person who is kept by someone and not allowed to leave, usually so the captor can demand money, safety, or some other action from others.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used in serious or violent contexts. Common patterns are 'take someone hostage', 'hold someone hostage', and 'hostage situation'. It can also be used figuratively in phrases like 'be held hostage by fear', but the literal meaning is much more common.
Example Sentences
The police tried to save the hostage.
basic
The movie is about a family trying to rescue their daughter after she is taken hostage.
natural
The bank robber took one man hostage.
basic
She was released after two days as a hostage.
basic
For hours, no one knew whether the hostage was still alive.
natural
We felt hostage to the endless delays and couldn't do anything about it.
natural