hold hostage English

Meaning hold hostage meaning

What does hold hostage mean?

hold hostage verb

— To hold as hostage.

— To have possession or custody of (a person) as security for performance against a treaty, a pledge, or a demand, especially now an extra-legal demand.

— To seek advantage in a situation by threatening the well-being or success of (a person or thing not directly involved in the situation).

— To hold in custody or use for any advantage.