kidnap

[kid-nap]

verb (used with object)

kidnapped, kidnaped, kidnapping, kidnaping. 

1. to steal, carry off, or abduct by force or fraud, especially for use as a hostage or to extract ransom.

   Synonyms: seize

kidnap

/ ˈkɪdnæp /

verb

1. (tr) to carry off and hold (a person), usually for ransom

Other Word Forms

• kidnapping noun
• kidnapper noun
• kidnappee noun
• kidnapee noun
• kidnaper noun
• unkidnaped adjective
• unkidnapped adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of kidnap¹

1675–85; kid ¹ + nap, variant of nab

Word History and Origins

Origin of kidnap¹

C17: _kid ¹ + obsolete nap to steal; see _nab

Example Sentences

We considered placing her without establishing a conservatorship but, if she went kicking and screaming, would that be kidnapping?

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Two of the occupants fled from the scene and Tafolla allegedly kidnapped one of them.

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If I force her into memory care without a conservatorship, would that be considered kidnapping?

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If I force her into memory care without a conservatorship, would that be considered kidnapping?

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Upon his release Mr. Sharabi learns that his wife and children had been killed in their home after his kidnapping.

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Related Words

• capture 
• hijack 
• seize 
• snatch 
• steal