kidnappings

noun

variants also kidnapings
plural of kidnapping
as in abductions
the unlawful or forcible carrying away of a person or animal an alert system for the prompt reporting of juvenile kidnappings

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 kidnappings In 2025, 1,268 kidnappings were reported, a nearly 40% drop from the 2,058 kidnapping reported the previous year, the report stated. — Dánica Coto, Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2026 In the '30s, when the Lindbergh baby was abducted, kidnappings and ransoms were so common that high-profile people often secured kidnapping insurance. — Kase Wickman, Vanity Fair, 7 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for kidnappings
  1. abductions
  2. rapes
Noun
  • But the government’s killings, torture, and abductions continued for years after the final whistle had blown.
    — Minky Worden, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026
  • His unit has investigated gang activity, murders, abductions.
    — Hanna Rosin, The Atlantic, 16 July 2026
Definition of abductions
Noun
  • Studies from West Virginia and Ohio show that being able to tie rapes across borders to one criminal prevents other crimes and can save communities millions.
    — Nick Penzenstadler, USA Today, 16 July 2026
  • Germany recorded 751 cases categorized as group rapes in 2025, according to the federal government’s response to a parliamentary inquiry submitted by the opposition Alternative für Deutschland party.
    — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 12 July 2026
Definition of rapes

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Cite this Entry

“Kidnappings.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/kidnappings. Accessed 23 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on kidnappings

Nglish: Translation of kidnappings for Spanish Speakers

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