Definition

A person who takes someone away illegally, often for ransom or other demands.

Example

The police arrested the kidnapper before he could escape with the victim.

Conversation

Did you hear about that story in the news?

Yeah, it was really scary to think about a kidnapper on the loose.

I know, right? It makes you feel unsafe just walking around.

Definitely! I hope they catch the kidnapper soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Kidnapper → It is formed from "kid" (from Middle English *kidde*, meaning a young goat or child) and "nap" (from the dialectal English *napper*, meaning to seize or snatch). The word "kidnapper" refers to someone who seizes or snatches a child.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'snatches' ('nap') a 'child' ('kid') — that's why a kidnapper is someone who takes a child.

Visually Confused Words