Kidnaped: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originates from 'kid' meaning a child and 'nap', which historically meant to seize or take away.
• The term began appearing in the 17th century, originally referring to the act of stealing children.
• In earlier English, 'nap' related to the act of kidnapping now we understand it as capturing individuals unlawfully.

Legal Aspects

• Typically, kidnapping is classified as a felony offense, often carrying severe legal penalties.
• Many jurisdictions define kidnapping specifically as taking someone against their will with intent to hold them for ransom or other demands.
• Some laws differentiate between children and adults regarding the severity and charges related to kidnapping.

Pop Culture

• The theme of kidnapping appears frequently in films, often portraying it as the central conflict, like in 'Taken' starring Liam Neeson.
• Books and TV shows often depict kidnappings, creating tension and engaging narratives, such as in mystery and suspense genres.
• Kiddnapping has also inspired various video games where player characters must rescue kidnapped individuals or reverse the act.

Psychology

• Victims of kidnapping can experience trauma, anxiety, and PTSD long after the event, affecting their mental health.
• The phenomenon of Stockholm syndrome occurs when kidnapping victims develop sympathy for their captors.
• Research shows that the duration of captivity significantly influences the psychological impact on victims.

History

• The first widely reported kidnapping case in America was the abduction of Charles Lindbergh's baby in 1932, leading to national attention.
• During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, child trafficking was rampant in many countries, leading to stricter laws.
• Kidnapping for ransom has been a practice in various cultures throughout history, often linked to political motives and war.

Ranking #35,584, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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