kidnap — to take someone away illegally by force, typically to obtain a ransom
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to take someone away illegally by force, typically to obtain a ransom
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈkɪdnæp/
Example Sentences
- The superhero's pet hamster was kidnapped by his arch-nemesis for a ridiculous ransom of 100 sunflower seeds.
- Parents should teach their children about stranger danger to prevent kidnapping.
- My cat thinks I kidnap him every time I take him to the vet.
kidnap
VERB[/ˈkɪdnæp/]
to take someone away illegally by force, typically to obtain a ransom
The police rescued the child after kidnappers abducted him.
The police prevented the kidnap before anyone was harmed. (👦 Kid + 🚐 Take Away → Kidnap)
The police stopped the kidnap, rescued the child, and reunited the family.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This word emerged in the 17th century from a combination of 'kid' (child) and 'nap' (to seize or steal). It originally described the criminal practice of abducting children to transport them to American colonies for enslavement.
Breakdown
kid (child) + nap (to seize, to steal or snatch). The verb 'nap' is of uncertain origin but likely related to Scandinavian roots meaning 'to catch' or 'to grab'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The superhero's pet hamster was kidnapped by his arch-nemesis for a ridiculous ransom of 100 sunflower seeds.”
“Parents should teach their children about stranger danger to prevent kidnapping.”
“My cat thinks I kidnap him every time I take him to the vet.”
“The movie plot involved a elaborate kidnap scheme that ultimately failed.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
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