Another Word For Ransom
Search for words with similar meanings
Meaning
The word "ransom" refers to a sum of money or another payment demanded for the release of a captive or a prisoner. Essentially, it's the payment made to free someone who has been held against their will. The term can also be used more broadly to describe any situation where something valuable is held hostage until a payment is made.
Synonyms
- Redemption
- Payment
- Price
- Compensation
Antonyms
- Forgiveness
- Release
- Freedom
- Liberation
Etymology
The word "ransom" comes from the Middle English "ranseomwe," which itself derives from the Old French "rançon," and further back from the Latin "redemptio," meaning "redemption" or "to buy back." The roots highlight the concept of payment and recovery.
Examples
- The kidnapper demanded a large ransom in exchange for the safe return of the hostage.
- The family was devastated but felt a glimmer of hope when they were able to gather the ransom to rescue their loved one.
- In historical contexts, nobles would often pay a ransom to secure their release after being captured in battle.
- The movie plot revolved around a ransom scenario where the hero had to outsmart the captors to save the victim without paying the ransom.