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

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

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

Australia will avoid recession even if a prolonged Middle East war pushes the oil price to $200 a barrel, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said Tuesday, outlining a national budget "heavily hostage to events overseas".

From Barron's • 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

Bloom, who seemed somehow more approachable and human than before, began by talking about the most stressful scenario a CO could ever possibly face: being held hostage.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover