Kidnap

Definition

To abduct or take someone away illegally by force, often with the intent to hold the person for ransom.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɪdnæp/
• Respelling: KID-nap (with "KID" as in "kid" and "nap" as in "cap")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɪdnæp/
• Respelling: KID-nap (with "KID" as in "kid" and "nap" as in "cap")

In both dialects, "kidnap" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "KID." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "KID-nap."

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Etymology

The term "kidnap" originated from the combination of "kid", meaning "child", and "nap", an obsolete term derived from "knappen" meaning "to seize" or "to snatch". It originally referred to the illegal abduction of children to provide servants or laborers in the American colonies.

Derivatives

• Kidnapper (noun)
• Kidnapping (noun/verb)
• Kidnapped (verb, past tense)
• Kidnappee (noun)
• Kidnap-for-ransom (noun)

Synonyms

• Abduct
• Seize
• Snatch

Antonyms

• Release
• Free
• Rescue

Usage

Kidnapping is a criminal offense and is often associated with demands for ransom, political leverage, or other illegal activities. Laws against kidnapping are stringent and punishable by severe penalties.

Related Terms

• Hostage
• Ransom
• Captivity
• Abduction
• Detain

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Kidnap (Verb): To seize and carry off (someone) by force, often to demand a ransom.
  • Example: "The wealthy businessman's son was kidnapped and held for ransom."

• Kidnap (Verb): To abduct and detain (a person) unlawfully.
  • Example: "The gang was notorious for kidnapping tourists in the region."