ransom
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1ran·som
noun \ˈran(t)-səm\Definition of RANSOM
1
: a consideration paid or demanded for the release of someone or something from captivity
2
: the act of ransoming
See Examples of RANSOM
- The kidnappers demanded a ransom of one million dollars.
- The family is willing to pay ransom for his release.
- The ransom note explained the terms under which she would be released.
Origin of RANSOM
Middle English ransoun, from Anglo-French rançun, from Latin redemption-, redemptio — more at redemption
First Known Use: 13th century
2ransom
transitive verbDefinition of RANSOM
1
: to deliver especially from sin or its penalty
2
: to free from captivity or punishment by paying a price
— ran·som·er noun
Examples of RANSOM
- He was held captive for a week before he was ransomed and returned to his family.
- <the prince emptied the treasury to ransom his son from the kidnappers>
First Known Use of RANSOM
14th century
Ran·som
biographical name \ˈran(t)-səm\Definition of RANSOM
John Crowe 1888–1974 Am. educ. & poet
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