Main Entry: kid·nap

Pronunciation: \ˈkid-ˌnap\

Function: transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): kid·napped also kid·naped \-ˌnapt\; kid·nap·ping also kid·nap·ing

Etymology: probably back-formation from kidnapper, from kid + obsolete napper thief

Date: 1682

: to seize and detain or carry away by unlawful force or fraud and often with a demand for ransom

— kid·nap·pee or kid·nap·ee \ˌkid-ˌna-ˈpē\ noun

— kid·nap·per also kid·nap·er noun