Definition

To take control of a vehicle or aircraft by force, often to use it for illegal purposes.

Example

The criminals attempted to highjack the plane mid-flight.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that movie where they try to highjack a plane?

Yeah, I saw the trailer! It looks intense.

I wonder what tactics they use to actually highjack it.

Probably a mix of clever planning and some unexpected twists.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Highjack is formed from "high" (meaning elevated or above) and "jack" (from the verb meaning to lift or raise). The term originally referred to the act of lifting or raising a vehicle, particularly in the context of theft or unlawful seizure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'high' meaning elevated and 'jack' meaning to lift — this helps you remember that 'highjack' refers to the act of unlawfully lifting or seizing something.

Visually Confused Words