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ransom

ran·som

ransom

 
 
pronunciation:
raen sm
parts of speech:
noun, verb
features:
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part of speech: noun
definition: the payment demanded in return for setting a kidnapped person free, or the act of setting someone free by paying the price demanded.
The kidnappers demanded a ransom of one hundred thousand dollars.They are holding a five-year-old child for ransom.
similar words:
bail, blackmail
 
part of speech: verb
inflections: ransoms, ransoming, ransomed
definition: to set free by paying a ransom.
Our government agreed to ransom the reporters who were being held captive in another country.
similar words:
deliver, free, liberate, loose, release, rescue
derivation: ransomer (n.)
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  money