1. Ransom (noun): A sum of money or payment demanded or paid for the release of a captive.
2. Ransom (verb): To obtain the release of someone or something by making a payment.
3. Ransom (noun): The act of freeing or redeeming someone from captivity or punishment, often by paying a price.
The term "ransom" primarily refers to the payment or action taken to secure the release of someone or something from captivity or constraint. It is frequently used in legal, historical, and fictional contexts to describe scenarios involving kidnapping or captivity. Discover how this powerful word connects themes of captivity, value, and liberation across different contexts and historical periods.
The word "ransom" has layered meanings, each emphasizing the concept of payment or action taken to achieve release. Below are the distinct definitions of "ransom."
As a noun, "ransom" typically refers to a sum of money or equivalent demanded or paid to free someone held captive. This definition is commonly associated with criminal contexts, such as kidnappings or historical accounts of prisoners of war.
When used as a verb, "ransom" describes the act of obtaining someone's release through payment or negotiation. This definition highlights the proactive nature of securing freedom.
In another noun usage, "ransom" refers to the overall process or act of securing someone's release, often emphasizing the emotional or moral undertones of redemption.
The word "ransom" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it represents the payment or process of redemption. As a verb, it signifies the action of paying or arranging for someone's release. Less commonly, it can be used metaphorically, such as "ransoming one's soul," implying acts of atonement or salvation.
The word "ransom" is pronounced as "RAN-suhm," where "RAN" rhymes with "can" or "man," and "suhm" sounds like "some" with a softer, shorter vowel sound. The stress falls heavily on the first syllable, "RAN," while the second syllable, "som," is pronounced quickly and lightly, similar to the ending of "awesome" without the "aw" sound.
Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˈræn.səm/
Understanding synonyms for "ransom" provides alternative ways to express this concept. Here are some examples:
Exploring antonyms of "ransom" helps contrast its meanings with opposite concepts. Some examples are:
Using "ransom" in various sentences can illustrate its versatility. Here are ten examples:
The word "ransom" is moderately used in contemporary English, often in legal, historical, or fictional contexts. Its frequency has remained steady in literary works, with spikes during periods of media coverage of high-profile kidnappings or historical analyses.
Variants of "ransom" exist in its grammatical and contextual forms:
Several terms are related to "ransom," expanding its conceptual reach:
The word "ransom" derives from the Old French "rançon," which appeared in the 12th century and meant "redemption" or "buying back." This French term originated from the Latin "redemptio," meaning "a buying back" or "ransoming," from "redimere" (to buy back), composed of "re-" (back) and "emere" (to buy). The concept became particularly significant during medieval warfare, where capturing nobles and demanding payment for their release was a common and socially accepted practice among European aristocracy. By the 14th century, English had fully adopted the word, and it appeared frequently in legal documents.
Here are common derivatives and compounds of "ransom":
Below are common misspellings of "ransom":
Idioms related to "ransom" often convey ideas of value, freedom, or negotiation:
1. What is the primary definition of "ransom"?
Ransom refers to a payment or action taken to secure someone's release from captivity.
2. Can "ransom" be used in legal contexts?
Yes, "ransom" often appears in legal cases related to kidnappings or extortion.
3. How is "ransom" used metaphorically?
Metaphorically, "ransom" can mean redemption or recovery of something lost.
4. What is a "king's ransom"?
A "king's ransom" refers to an exorbitant amount of money or a valuable item.
5. Are there cultural references involving "ransom"?
Yes, "ransom" appears in literature, movies, and history, often depicting negotiations for freedom.
6. What is the past tense of "ransom"?
The past tense of "ransom" is "ransomed."
7. Is "ransom" always monetary?
No, "ransom" can also involve non-monetary exchanges for release.
8. How does "ransom" relate to history?
Historically, ransom was a common practice during feudal and wartime periods.
9. What part of speech is "ransom"?
"Ransom" is both a noun and a verb.
10. What does "ransoming oneself" mean?
This phrase suggests taking personal action to recover freedom or peace.
"Ransom" refers to the act or payment involved in securing someone's release. This word plays a significant role in legal, historical, and cultural narratives. Understanding its meanings encourages precise usage and exploration of related terms.
