hostage

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 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

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

The plan says Hamas – which led the deadly attack and mass hostage taking in Israel in October 2023, triggering the war – should have no role in future governance.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

Scruffy, a checkered blue bow bobbing in his fur, prances up to the Four Paws Spa's arched grand entryway, where the Japanese prime minister's cat is secretly being held hostage by the evil Dr. Loofah.

From "Dog Squad" by Chris Grabenstein