ransom

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun money demanded for the return of a captured person
  2. noun payment for the release of someone
  3. noun the act of freeing from captivity or punishment

Etymology

From the Middle English ransoun, from the Old French raençon, from stem of Latin redēmptiō. Entered English ca. the 13th century. Doublet of redemption.

In classic literature

Synonyms

ransom money

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