An undertaking to answer for the payment of some debt, or the performance of some contract or duty, of another, in case of the failure of such other to pay or perform; a warranty; a security.
An assurance or guarantee.
Something serving as a security for such an undertaking.
A person given as a pledge or security for the performance of the conditions of a treaty or similar agreement, such as to ensure the status of a vassal.
The condition of being held as security or to compel someone else to act or not act in a particular way.
Something that constrains one's actions because it is at risk.
A person seized in order to compel another party to act (or refrain from acting) in a certain way, because of the threat of harm to the hostage.
One who is compelled by something, especially something that poses a threat; one who is not free to choose their own course of action.
To hold (someone or something) hostage, especially in a way that constrains or controls the person or thing held, or in order to exchange for something else.
To give (someone or something) as a hostage to (someone or something else).