Definitions

1. noun

A person who is kept by an enemy as a prisoner in order to secure compliance or to prevent harm to others.

“The government tried to negotiate the release of the hostages from the terrorist group.”

2. noun

A person or thing that is being detained or controlled, typically for an emotional or psychological reason.

“She felt like a hostage to her addiction and couldn’t escape its grip.”

3. verb

To hold or keep (someone) as a prisoner, especially in order to secure compliance or to prevent harm to others.

“The rebels had taken the town and were hostage to its strategic location.”

4. verb

To be held or controlled, typically for an emotional or psychological reason.

“She felt hostage to her own fears and couldn’t move forward.”