kidnap

[ kid-nap ]

verb (used with object)

, kid·napped or kid·naped, kid·nap·ping or kid·nap·ing.

1. to steal, carry off, or abduct by force or fraud, especially for use as a hostage or to extract ransom.

   Synonyms: seize

kidnap

/ ˈkɪdnæp /

verb

1. tr to carry off and hold (a person), usually for ransom

Derived Forms

• ˈkidnapping, noun
• ˈkidnapper, noun

Other Words From

• kidnap·pee kidnap·ee noun
• kidnap·per kidnap·er noun
• un·kidnaped adjective
• un·kidnapped adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of kidnap¹

1675–85; kid ¹ + nap, variant of nab

Word History and Origins

Origin of kidnap¹

C17: kid ¹+ obsolete nap to steal; see nab

Example Sentences

Boyle Heights and the MacArthur Park area, gaining their trust through friendly conversation in order to kidnap and rob their victims at gunpoint, authorities said.

From Los Angeles Times

The wife of Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye says he has been kidnapped and is now being held in a military jail.

From BBC

There are another four hostages who were kidnapped before 7 October, two of whom are believed to be dead.

From BBC

He says he told investigators he thought Iza was trying to have him kidnapped.

From Los Angeles Times

They include two felony counts of murder, one felony count of kidnapping, two felony counts of arson of property, and two felony counts of first-degree burglary.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• capture
• hijack
• seize
• snatch
• steal