ransom
n. C / U B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɹænsəm// UK //ɹˈænsəm// ran·som
n. a sum of money that someone demands in exchange for releasing a person they have captured. You pay this to get a prisoner or a kidnapped person back safely.
n. a sum of money or other consideration demanded or paid for the release of a person being held captive. Often used in the context of kidnapping or historical warfare.
The kidnappers demanded a high ransom for the businessman.
The family worked with the police to deliver the ransom without putting the victim in further danger.
Historically, kings and nobles captured in battle were often held for ransom, with their release contingent upon the payment of vast sums from their home territories.
Usage
Commonly used in the phrase 'to hold someone to ransom' or 'to pay a ransom'.