What does hijacker mean?
A hijacker is a person who takes control of an aircraft, vehicle, or other means of transportation by force or threat, often with the intention of using it for their own purposes. This can include taking control of a plane, train, or bus, as well as other forms of transportation. Hijackers may use violence or intimidation to achieve their goals, and their actions can have serious consequences for the people involved. The term 'hijacker' is often used in formal or technical contexts, but it may also be used more broadly in informal contexts to refer to anyone who takes control of a situation or system. Hijackers are often associated with terrorism, but the term can also be used to refer to anyone who engages in this type of behavior. In general, hijackers are seen as a threat to public safety and security, and their actions are often met with a strong response from law enforcement and other authorities.
nounA person who takes control of an aircraft, vehicle, or other means of transportation by force or threat, often with the intention of using it for their own purposes.
- A person who takes control of an aircraft, vehicle, or other means of transportation by force or threat, often with the intention of using it for their own purposes.
"The hijacker demanded that the plane be diverted to a country in the Middle East."
"The hijacker demanded that the plane be diverted to a country in the Middle East."
"The hijacker was a former pilot who had been fired from his job."
The plural form 'hijackers' is used to refer to multiple people who have taken control of vehicles or aircraft.
"The hijackers were arrested and charged with terrorism."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hijacker
The word 'hijacker' is derived from the verb 'hijack', which means to take control of a vehicle or aircraft by force or threat. The verb 'hijack' is thought to have originated in the mid-20th century, and it is likely derived from the word 'jack', which means to take control of something.
How hijacker is actually used
In formal or technical contexts, the term 'hijacker' is often used to refer to the person responsible for taking control of a vehicle or aircraft. In informal contexts, the term may be used more broadly to refer to anyone who takes control of a situation or system.