kidnap
Kidnap (verb) means to unlawfully seize and hold a person captive, often to demand a ransom. Example: “The gang kidnapped the businessman and demanded a large ransom.”
How to use kidnap
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo illegally capture and hold someone against their will.
Word forms
kidnapped past tense, kidnaped past tense, kidnaps plural, kidnaps singular
Etymology
From "kid" (child) + slang "nap" (to snatch or grab). It began as 17th-century criminal slang for stealing children to sell as laborers in overseas colonies.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “kidnap” mean?
The word “kidnap” means to unlawfully seize and hold a person captive, often to demand a ransom. In plain terms, to illegally capture and hold someone against their will.
How do you pronounce “kidnap”?
“Kidnap” is pronounced KIHD-nap (/ˈkɪdnæp/ in IPA).
How do you use “kidnap” in a sentence?
Here is “kidnap” used in a sentence: “The gang kidnapped the businessman and demanded a large ransom.”
What part of speech is “kidnap”?
“Kidnap” is a verb.
Where does the word “kidnap” come from?
The word “kidnap” dates back to around 1600. From "kid" (child) + slang "nap" (to snatch or grab). It began as 17th-century criminal slang for stealing children to sell as laborers in overseas colonies.
Is “kidnap” a common word?
“Kidnap” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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