Definition of abductionnext
as in kidnapping
the unlawful or forcible carrying away of a person or animal discredited reports of abductions by aliens

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of abduction The landscape once celebrated in the story of Heer and Ranjha has become one of death, violence, separation, and abduction. Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 July 2026 After nearly six months, no suspects have been named in Nancy’s abduction. Rachel McRady, PEOPLE, 28 July 2026 Savannah Guthrie on Monday posted a new message on Instagram about her mother’s abduction almost six months ago, pleading with those who may have information to come forward. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 27 July 2026 All 10 victims were apparently kidnapped in the days before their slayings, authorities say, though none of the abductions were reported to police until the bodies were discovered. Los Angeles Times, 26 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for abduction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for abduction
Noun
  • He has since been charged with kidnapping, theft by taking, simple battery, entering an automobile, cruelty to children and criminal attempt to commit a felony.
    Desiree Anello, PEOPLE, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Saleem Martin, 21, has been charged with kidnapping, theft by taking, simple battery, entering automobile, cruelty to children, and criminal attempt to commit a felony, according to the Atlanta Police Department.
    Nadine El-Bawab, ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • What comes next, though the narrator continues to use us rather than I, is clearly an account of frequent marital rape.
    Lily Meyer, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026
  • The execution of Duckett, a former police officer who was convicted of the 1987 rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl, was scheduled for noon Eastern, according to the outlets.
    Liam Quinn, PEOPLE, 28 July 2026

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“Abduction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/abduction. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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