English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word "hold someone captive" in English

What does "hold someone captive" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

hold someone captive

US /hoʊld ˈsʌmwʌn ˈkæptɪv/
UK /hoʊld ˈsʌmwʌn ˈkæptɪv/
"hold someone captive" picture

Idiom

1.

to keep someone as a prisoner or in a confined space, often against their will

Example:
•
The kidnappers decided to hold him captive until the ransom was paid.
•
The police managed to rescue the victims who were being held captive in the basement.
Synonym:
imprisondetainconfinecaptureenslave
2.

to completely absorb someone's attention or interest

Example:
•
The speaker's powerful story managed to hold the audience captive.
•
The thrilling plot of the novel will hold you captive from beginning to end.
Synonym:
captivateengrossfascinatemesmerizeabsorb
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Related Word:
captivatecaptivatingput someone on holdhold someone prisonerhold someone's attentionhold someone/something in contempthold