Definition

The amount of money that is demanded for the release of a person who has been captured or held against their will.

Example

The kidnappers asked for a large ransom in exchange for the safe return of the hostages.

Conversation

Did you hear about that movie where they have to pay a ransom to save the kidnapped person?

Yeah, it's such a tense storyline!

I wonder how much ransom they ended up asking for in the film.

It was a huge amount, which added to the drama.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To free someone by paying money or another valuable thing to someone who is holding them captive.

Example

The kidnapper demanded a large ransom for the safe return of the hostages.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the kid who was ransomed last week?

Yeah, it's crazy how that happens sometimes.

I can't believe they actually paid the ransom to get him back.

Root Explanation

Ransom → It originates from Old French 'rançon' (meaning a price paid for the release of a captive) and Latin 'redemptio' (meaning redemption or buying back). The word 'ransom' refers to the money paid for the release of someone who has been captured or held hostage.

Memory Tip

Think of paying a 'price' ('rançon') to 'buy back' someone who has been taken captive — that's why ransom means the money paid for their release.

Visually Confused Words