What does kidnapping mean?
Kidnapping is the unlawful taking away and detention of a person, usually by force and frequently for ransom. It can function as a noun, as in “the kidnapping of a diplomat,” or as a verb, as in “the criminals kidnapped the witness.” The term carries strong associations with fear, coercion, and criminal violence, although its precise legal meaning can vary by jurisdiction. Although kidnapping is now used for the abduction of people of any age, the word “kidnap” originally referred to the stealing of children. The expression is especially common in news reporting, investigations, and discussions of security and hostage crises. It is also useful in distinguishing an act of unlawful seizure and confinement from a voluntary departure or from less specific descriptions of someone being taken away.
The act of unlawfully taking away and detaining a person by force, especially for ransom.
"The kidnapping of the aid worker prompted an international search."
The plural is “kidnappings.” The term is common in journalism, legal contexts, and discussions of security.
To seize and hold a person unlawfully by force, usually against their will and often in order to demand a ransom.
"The criminals kidnapped the television host and released a video demanding the release of their accomplice."
Used in both British and American English; in legal settings, the precise definition may depend on the jurisdiction.
The standard plural of the noun, referring to separate acts or incidents of kidnapping.
"The report documented three kidnappings in the region over the past year."
The word “kidnap” began as a term for stealing children before becoming a global term for hostage-taking.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does kidnapping come from?
Kidnapping is derived from the verb “kidnap,” which appeared in American English in the 17th century, initially in the sense of carrying off or stealing children. The compound is generally explained as combining “kid,” meaning a child, with “nap,” which has an older sense related to stealing or seizing. Its meaning later broadened from the abduction of children to the forcible taking and detention of people, often for ransom.
Related word forms
How kidnapping is actually used
Kidnapping usually implies coercion, force, and the unlawful confinement of a person. It is used in both formal reporting and everyday speech, while legal definitions can vary between jurisdictions.
Easily confused with kidnapping
Abduction is a broader legal term for taking a person away, whereas kidnapping commonly emphasizes forcible seizure and detention, often for ransom.