Synonyms for
Hostage
Definition
A person or thing that is held by someone else as a way to get something they want or as a way to make someone do something.
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Antonyms
Common collocations
- take hostage
- hold hostage
- hostage situation
- hostage negotiator
- hostage crisis
- hostage exchange
- release hostage
Word family
Usage note
While 'hostage' can be used as a verb, it is less common and often considered informal. The noun form is far more prevalent.
Example sentences
- The bank robbers took the tellers hostage.
- The kidnappers held the child hostage until they received the ransom money.
- The terrorist group threatened to harm the hostages if their demands were not met.
- The soldier was taken hostage during the war.
- The hostage was released unharmed after negotiations were successful.
Quotes
The true test of a leader is whether his followers will adhere to his cause from their own volition, enduring the most arduous hardships without being forced to do so, and remaining steadfast in the moments of greatest peril. - Xenophon
The fate of a nation has often depended upon the good or bad digestion of a prime minister. - Voltaire
There are only so many tomorrows. - Michael Landon