Definition

Noun: - Money demanded for the return of a captured person: A sum of money that is demanded by captors in exchange for releasing a person who has been taken and held against their will.

Usage

The term "ransom money" is used specifically to refer to the payment itself in a kidnapping or hostage situation. It is the central demand made by the captors.

Examples

• The family gathered the ransom money to secure their son's release.
• The kidnappers instructed them to leave the ransom money in a suitcase at the park.
• The police advised against paying the ransom money, fearing it would encourage further crimes.

Advanced Usage

• "To pay a king's ransom": This is an idiom meaning to pay a very large amount of money. While it uses "ransom," it is not directly about kidnapping.
  • He paid a king's ransom for that rare painting.

Variants and Related Words

• Ransom (noun): The sum of money or other payment demanded or paid for the release of a captive. "Ransom money" is a more specific form of this general term.
  • The ransom was set at one million dollars.
• Ransom (verb): To secure the release of a captive by paying a demanded sum.
  • They ransomed the diplomat after weeks of negotiation.

Synonyms

• Ransom payment: A direct synonym.
• Redemption money: A less common, more formal term with a similar meaning.

Related Phrases

• Hold someone for ransom: To kidnap someone and demand payment for their release.
  • The criminals held the executive for ransom.
• Ransom demand / Ransom note: The message stating the amount of money required and the terms for release.
  • The ransom note was delivered to the family's home.

Noun

1. money demanded for the return of a captured person