Synonyms for
Ransom
Definition
Ransom means a sum of money demanded or paid for the release of a captive.
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- pay a ransom
- demand a ransom
- hold for ransom
- kidnap for ransom
- negotiate a ransom
- release for ransom
- ransom money
Word family
Usage note
Ransom typically refers to money paid to free a captive. While it can be used metaphorically for atonement, its primary modern usage is literal.
Example sentences
- The kidnappers demanded a ransom for the safe return of the child.
- The pirates asked for a large sum of money as ransom for the captured sailors.
- The family paid a ransom to get their car back from the thieves.
- The government refused to pay a ransom to the terrorists for the release of the hostages.
- The police negotiated with the bank robbers to reduce the ransom amount.
Quotes
The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it. Resist it, and your soul grows sick with longing for the things it has forbidden to itself, with desire for what its monstrous laws have made monstrous and unlawful. - Oscar Wilde
Like all weak men he laid an exaggerated stress on not changing one's mind. - W. Somerset Maugham
Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened. - Dr. Seuss