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Abducting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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abducting

[æbˈdʌktɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

criminal activity

Abducting refers to the act of unlawfully taking someone away by force or fraud. This can involve kidnapping individuals against their will, often with the intent to hold them for ransom or other motives. Abduction can leave deep psychological scars on the victim and can have legal consequences for the perpetrator. It is considered a serious crime in most jurisdictions and is subject to severe punishment.

Synonyms

capture, carry off, kidnap, snatch.

Examples of usage

  • The child was abducted from the park last weekend.
  • Authorities have issued a warning about potential abductions in the area.
  • The documentary explored the trauma faced by victims of abduction.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • Abduction laws vary by country; some jurisdictions treat it as a serious felony.
  • In many places, abduction includes not only children but also adults in vulnerable situations.
  • Certain laws distinguish between parental abduction and criminal abduction.

Pop Culture

  • Films and books about abduction frequently explore themes of intrigue, suspense, and rescue.
  • The term has been popularized in various media, from horror movies to thrillers, often creating a sense of urgency.
  • The topic of alien abductions has become a staple in science fiction, captivating imaginations.

Psychology

  • Studies show that victims of abduction often experience long-term psychological effects such as PTSD.
  • The fear associated with abduction can affect a person's worldview and sense of security.
  • Victims may sometimes develop Stockholm syndrome, where they form emotional bonds with their abductors.

Education

  • Awareness programs in schools often teach children about personal safety and recognizing dangers related to abduction.
  • Educational materials emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious activities to trusted adults.
  • Role-playing scenarios are sometimes used in classrooms to help children understand and react to potential abduction situations.

Origin of 'abducting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'abductus', which means 'to lead away'.
  • In law, the term has evolved to describe illegal taking and is often associated with kidnapping.
  • Modern usage accounts for both terrestrial and extraterrestrial implications, hence the link to UFOs.

The word 'abduct' originates from the Latin term 'abductus', which is the past participle of 'abducere', meaning 'to lead away'. This Latin verb is a compound of 'ab-', meaning 'away from', and 'ducere', meaning 'to lead'. The term made its way into English in the 15th century and has since been used primarily in legal and criminal contexts. Initially, it was used in historical texts to describe the act of taking someone from their home or territory. Over time, the meaning has evolved but has retained its core definition, focusing on the illegal and forceful nature of the act. The transition from a broader description of taking to a more specific definition associated with crime reflects societal concerns about safety and personal autonomy. Today, 'abducting' is commonly associated with high-profile criminal cases and psychological studies on the impact of such acts on victims.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,479 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.