What does kidnaps mean?
Kidnaps is a verb that means to take someone away by force or threat, typically to hold them captive or for ransom. This can be done for various reasons, including financial gain, revenge, or to draw attention to a cause. The term is often associated with high-profile cases, such as the kidnapping of children or celebrities. In some cases, kidnaps can also refer to the act of taking someone away from their home or family, often without their consent. The word has a serious connotation and is often used in news headlines and police reports. In everyday language, kidnaps is not commonly used, but it is an important term in the context of crime and law enforcement.
verb
To take someone away by force or threat, typically to hold them captive or for ransom.
- 1. To take someone away by force or threat, typically to hold them captive or for ransom.
"The police were called to investigate a report of a kidnapping."
"The police were called to investigate a report of a kidnapping."
"The kidnappers demanded a ransom in exchange for the safe release of the hostage."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of kidnaps
The word 'kidnaps' comes from the Old English word 'kidnappen', which means 'to take away by force'. This word is derived from the Latin 'captivus', meaning 'captive', and the Old French 'enlever', meaning 'to take away'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the act of taking someone away by force or threat.
Usage notes
Kidnaps is a formal term and is often used in news headlines and police reports. It is not commonly used in everyday language, but it is an important term in the context of crime and law enforcement.