Hostages: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to people held against their will, typically for ransom or leverage in negotiations. This word often implies a situation involving threats of harm or demands that need to be met.

• The kidnappers took three hostages and demanded a large sum of money for their release
• The hostages were held in a dark room for several days before they were rescued

Describes people detained or imprisoned, often during war or conflict. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is confined in some way. This term is more general and not necessarily linked to ransom.

• The soldiers found a group of captives held in a bunker
• For years, he felt like a captive to his own fears and anxieties

Typically describes individuals who are legally held in custody or jail, as a result of committing a crime or awaiting trial. It can also refer to prisoners of war.

• The prisoners were escorted back to their cells after the trial
• During the war, many soldiers became prisoners and were held in camps

Refers to individuals who have been taken away illegally or by force. This term is broader and can describe victims of kidnappings without necessarily involving negotiations or demands.

• The police were searching for the abductees who were taken from the school playground
• Several abductees managed to escape their captors and were found in the nearby forest

Used when talking about people who are held against their will by others, usually to force some action or demand ransom.

• The kidnappers took three hostages and demanded money.
• The terrorists held the hostages for several days.

Used when referring to individuals who are held in custody by authorities, typically in connection with legal or immigration issues.

• The police detained several suspects for questioning.
• The immigration office is processing the detainees.

Primarily used to describe individuals who are confined to a prison or other type of penal institution.

• The inmates were allowed an hour of outdoor exercise.
• She teaches art classes to inmates at the local prison.

Used to describe individuals who are confined or imprisoned, often during wartime or in situations involving conflict.

• The soldiers found the captives in an underground bunker.
• During the war, many soldiers were taken as captives.