Synonyms of kidnap

kidnap

verb

ˈkid-ˌnap 

as in to abduct

to carry away (as a person) forcibly or unlawfully

the child of the wealthy industrialist was kidnapped and held for ransom

Synonyms & Similar Words

• abduct
• capture
• seize
• snatch
• run off with
• impress
• steal
• waylay
• make away with
• spirit
• make off with
• take
• hijack
• crimp
• catch
• shanghai
• cop
• abscond (with)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• deliver
• return
• rescue
• redeem
• ransom
• restore

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of kidnap

And over the course of six years, her character was put through an emotional wringer as well, getting shot, drugged by her stepmother, strangled, nearly drowned and repeatedly kidnapped — usually while wearing tiny denim cutoffs and a crop top. — Benjamin Svetkey, HollywoodReporter, 20 Aug. 2026

The girl, who was kidnapped along with her father, chief of staff to the minister of defense, have still not been released. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 20 Aug. 2026

Back in 1997, the Charlatans almost managed to successfully kidnap me and take me on tour with them. — Lily Moayeri, SPIN, 19 Aug. 2026

Lakesha Shanta Brown is accused of kidnapping 4-year-old Zola Cooper and her 11-month-old sister, Norah Cooper. — Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026