Definition

Describing someone or something that is held or confined, often against their will, or unable to escape.

Example

The captive animals were kept in a small enclosure at the zoo.

Conversation

Did you see that documentary about the captive animals in the wild?

Yeah, it was really eye-opening to see how they were treated.

I know! It made me feel so sad for those captive creatures.

Absolutely, they deserve to be free and live in their natural habitats.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A person who is held against their will, often in a situation where they cannot escape, such as a prisoner or someone who is enslaved.

Example

The soldiers rescued the captive from the enemy camp.

Conversation

I just read a book about a soldier who was a captive during the war.

That sounds intense! What happened to him?

He had to survive in harsh conditions while trying to escape from his captive situation.

Root Explanation

Captive → It is formed from "captivus" (from Latin, meaning taken or seized) and the suffix "-e" (used to form adjectives). The word "captive" refers to someone who has been taken or seized, often against their will.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has been 'taken' ('captivus') and is now held against their will — that's what it means to be a captive.

Visually Confused Words