Meaning of hold hostage | Babel Free

Definitions

1. To hold as hostage.
2. To have possession or custody of (a person) as security for performance against a treaty, a pledge, or a demand, especially now an extra-legal demand.
3. To seek advantage in a situation by threatening the well-being or success of (a person or thing not directly involved in the situation).
4. To sabotage (a computer) with intent to blackmail the owner.
5. To hold in custody or use for any advantage.

Equivalents

Examples

“Mr. President, when someone holds up this bill and holds it hostage, it is holding hostage the money that would go to aid victims of disaster.”

“Plans for the resumption of her nursery school were put on hold, held hostage by the polio epidemic.”

“Before Frank could turn in his final exam, Jigsaw held his computer hostage.”

“That way, a taxidriver cannot hold the traveler's luggage hostage in the trunk for more money.”

CEFR level