hostages
word · lemma: hostage
Definition
Hostages are people who are kept by force so that others will do something, such as pay money, release prisoners, or meet demands. The word is usually used in situations involving crime, war, or terrorism.
Usage & Nuances
Usually appears in plural: 'take hostages', 'release hostages', 'held hostage'. Strongly associated with violent or extreme situations. It can also be used metaphorically in phrases like 'be held hostage by fear', but the literal meaning is much more common and serious.
Example Sentences
The police said the hostages were safe.
basic
The men took three hostages from the bank.
basic
The hostages were released after two days.
basic
The negotiators are still trying to get the hostages out alive.
natural
Everyone was glued to the news, waiting for updates about the hostages.
natural
The workers said they were being treated like hostages by their employer.
natural