hostage
Translation
hostage
Examples
The terrorists took a hostage.
The terrorists took a hostage.
He was held hostage for three months.
He was held hostage for three months.
Grammar Patterns
to take ((sb.)) hostage The terrorists took him hostage.
to hold ((sb.)) hostage They held the ambassador hostage.
Similar Words
Synonyms: captive, prisoner, pawn
Etymology
From Old French 'hostage', from 'hoste' meaning 'host'. Originally a person given to another as a pledge.
Memory Tips
Imagine a 'host' being forced to 'age' quickly from the stress of being held captive.