die Geisel
Translation
hostage
Examples
Die Entführer nahmen drei Geiseln.
The kidnappers took three hostages.
Die Freilassung der Geisel wurde verhandelt.
The hostage's release was negotiated.
Grammar Patterns
to take (sb.) hostage Die Räuber nahmen den Bankangestellten als Geisel.
to release a hostage Die Polizei verhandelte, um die Geiseln freizulassen.
Similar Words
Synonym: der/die Gefangene (prisoner)
Etymology
Originates from the Old High German word 'gīsal', which meant 'pledge' or 'hostage'.
Memory Tips
It sounds a little like the English word 'gazelle'. Picture a gazelle being held hostage by a predator, a memorable if slightly odd image.