adj
Common
kidnapped
Kidnapped (adj) means Describes someone who has been unlawfully seized and held captive. Example: “The film is about a kidnapped child who finds a way to send a message home.”
adj
1
Describes someone who has been unlawfully seized and held captive.
"The film is about a kidnapped child who finds a way to send a message home."
"The kidnapped hostage was found safe three days later."
How to use kidnapped
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving been taken and held against one's will.
Common pairings
kidnapped victim
kidnapped child
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The film is about a _____ child who finds a way to send a message home.
Etymology
Past-tense/adjectival form of "kidnap."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for kidnapped
See all rhymes for kidnapped →Frequently asked questions
What does “kidnapped” mean?
The word “kidnapped” means describes someone who has been unlawfully seized and held captive. In plain terms, having been taken and held against one's will.
How do you use “kidnapped” in a sentence?
Here is “kidnapped” used in a sentence: “The kidnapped hostage was found safe three days later.”
What part of speech is “kidnapped”?
“Kidnapped” is an adjective.
Is “kidnapped” a common word?
“Kidnapped” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between kidnapped and abducted?
Both describe someone unlawfully seized and taken by force, and the words are often used interchangeably. "Kidnapped" tends to emphasise being seized and then held captive, often for ransom, while "abducted" simply stresses being carried off against one's will.
Is it spelled kidnapped or kidnaped?
The standard spelling in both British and American English is kidnapped, with two p's. The single-p form "kidnaped" is an older American variant that is now rare.
What is the difference between kidnapped and captured?
"Kidnapped" implies an unlawful, criminal seizing of a person, usually a civilian. "Captured" is more neutral and can describe lawfully taking someone, such as a prisoner of war, or catching a person or animal.
What is the difference between being kidnapped and being held hostage?
Someone who is kidnapped has been unlawfully seized and held captive, while a hostage is a captive held specifically to pressure others into meeting demands. Being taken hostage can be one purpose behind a kidnapping.
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