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Definitions

hostage

[hos-tij] / ˈhɒs tɪdʒ /
NOUN
person held captive until captor's demand is met
Synonyms
Antonyms


Example Sentences

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Bakersfield City Hall, the local police headquarters, nearby buildings and multiple roads were closed during the hostage situation, as the police department's negotiation team began contacting the suspect via telephone.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

The new risk is different and, in some ways, harder to manage: It assumes that civilian power infrastructure becomes a military asset, a hostage or a weapon simply by existing in a conflict zone.

From Salon • May 21, 2026

What about the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran holds hostage global energy flows and more?

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

Tradition dictates that an MP is ceremonially held "hostage" in the palace to ensure the king's safe return.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

What would / do in his place if Devan were a hostage?

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin




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