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ransom

The correct spelling is ransom.

How to pronounce ransom

/ˈɹænsəm/
noun

IPA: /ˈɹænsəm/

Say it like: Ran-som

The correct spelling is ransom. Money paid for the freeing of a hostage. For example: "They were held for two million dollars ransom."

Usage Examples

They were held for two million dollars ransom.

prisoners hopeless of ransom

to ransom prisoners from an enemy

Meanings

noun

  1. 1.Money paid for the freeing of a hostage.
  2. 2.The release of a captive, or of captured property, by payment of a consideration.
  3. 3.A sum paid for the pardon of some great offence and the discharge of the offender; also, a fine paid in lieu of corporal punishment.

verb

  1. 1.(14th century) To deliver, especially in context of sin or relevant penalties.
  2. 2.To pay a price to set someone free from captivity or punishment.
  3. 3.To exact a ransom for, or a payment on.

Similar words

Words related in meaning — check their spelling too.

View synonyms & usage examples