Definitions

1. noun

the act of paying money or giving something of value in order to free a person or thing that has been captured or is being held.

“The government paid a large ransom to the kidnappers to secure the safe release of the hostages.”

2. noun

a sum of money or other compensation demanded for the return of something, especially a person, that has been stolen or taken.

“The police are investigating the ransom that was paid for the stolen artwork.”

3. verb

to demand or accept money or other compensation in exchange for the return of something, especially a person, that has been stolen or taken.

“The thieves ransomed the businessman for a large sum of money.”