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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.

"Taiwan's future cannot be decided by foreign forces, nor can it be held hostage by fear, division, or short-term interests," Lai said in a speech to mark the second year of his presidency.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

He said business groups had moved to “hold hostage this city and these workers.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 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

The parallels to today, while not exact, are interesting; along with the Iran hostage crisis, stagflation ended up destroying Jimmy Carter’s presidency.

From Salon • May 7, 2026

Nineteen eighty-three brought the B-block takeover and hostage crisis.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover




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