hold hostage
verb› To hold as hostage.
1
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.
2
To seek advantage in a situation by threatening the well-being or success of (a person or thing not directly involved in the situation).
- Mr. President, when someone holds up this bill and holds it hostage, it is holding hostage the money that would go to aid victims of disaster.1996, Congressional Record: Proceedings and Debates […] :
- Plans for the resumption of her nursery school were put on hold, held hostage by the polio epidemic.2012, Andrew Clyde Little, Wheeler's Wake Volume II: A Biographical Novel, volume 2, page 189:
3
Computer, Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Physical sciences, Science, Sciences Of a hacker or malware To sabotage (a computer) with intent to blackmail the owner.
- Before Frank could turn in his final exam, Jigsaw held his computer hostage.
4
To hold in custody or use for any advantage.
- That way, a taxidriver cannot hold the traveler's luggage hostage in the trunk for more money.2009, Brian R. Johnson, Brian Kingshott, Safe Overseas Travel: Maximizing Enjoyment by Minimizing Risk:
- Related terms
- take hostage