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Definitions

hostage

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


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"The era in which a terrorist group held an entire nation hostage is coming to an end."

From Barron's • May 24, 2026

An MP will also be ceremonially taken "hostage" in Buckingham Palace while the King attends Parliament.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

Another commenter said that the delays in reopening feel like ownership “keeping a bit of our heritage hostage from us.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

With the mayor’s vocal support, Mr. Bratton put broken-windows policing to work, arresting “squeegee men” who smeared dirty rags across motorists’ windshields, holding them hostage for a “contribution.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

I never feel like I’ve been taken hostage when it’s just us.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson




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