HOLD RANSOM Meaning and
Definition
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To "hold ransom" refers to the act of taking someone or something as a hostage or captive, with the intent to demand a payment, concession, or specific action in exchange for their release. This term is commonly used in the context of criminal activities or negotiations involving hostages.
When someone or something is "held ransom," it means they are being detained against their will and their release depends on the fulfillment of certain conditions set forth by the captor. Typically, these conditions involve the payment of a specified amount of money, known as a ransom. The captor may also demand other forms of compensation or compliance before releasing the individual or item.
The purpose of "holding ransom" is usually to exert control over the situation, bend someone to the captor's will, or achieve a certain objective. In many cases, this act is carried out for financial gain, where the captor aims to secure a monetary sum in exchange for the release of a person or property. However, the demands could also involve political, social, or personal motives, depending on the circumstances.
The act of "holding ransom" is considered illegal and unethical in most jurisdictions, as it involves kidnapping, coercion, or extortion. Law enforcement agencies and negotiators often become involved to secure the safe release of the captive, apprehend the captor, and bring them to justice.
Common Misspellings for HOLD RANSOM
- hald ransom
- gold ransom
- bold ransom
- nold ransom
- jold ransom
- uold ransom
- yold ransom
- hild ransom
- hkld ransom
- hlld ransom
- hpld ransom
- h0ld ransom
- h9ld ransom
- hokd ransom
- hopd ransom
- hood ransom
- hols ransom
- holx ransom
- holc ransom
- holf ransom
Etymology of HOLD RANSOM
The word "ransom" has its origins in Old French (raençon) and Latin (redemptio) meaning "redemption" or "a buying back". Originally, it referred to the price paid for the release of a captive or kidnapped individual. The phrase "hold ransom" is a combination of the verb "hold", which means to keep something or someone in captivity, and the noun "ransom", which means the payment demanded for their release. "Hold ransom" thus means to keep someone captive until a payment is made for their freedom.
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