Kidnap
'kɪdnæp
Definitions
To unlawfully seize and detain a person, typically for ransom or other demands.
'kɪdnæp
To seize and detain a person, usually for ransom.
The criminals planned to kidnap the CEO for ransom.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone snatches a person and holds them to get something, like money. It's like taking someone without their permission and keeping them somewhere.
👶 For kids: To take a person and keep them somewhere. Bad guys do this sometimes to get money.
More Examples
She was terrified that someone would try to kidnap her children.
The government negotiated to free the hostages who were kidnapped.
How It's Used
"The police are investigating a suspected kidnapping."
"News reports detailed the kidnapping of the wealthy businessman."
From 'kid' (child) + 'nap' (to seize). The term originated in the 17th century, likely referring to the practice of abducting children for ransom or to work as indentured servants.
The term 'kidnap' started being used in the early 17th century referring to the practice of abducting children. Often, the purpose was to sell the children for a profit.
Memory tip
Think of the 'kid' who is 'napped' (taken) away.
Word Origin
"Combination of "kid" (child) and "nap" (to seize, from Middle English). The original meaning specifically referred to the abduction of children."