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).
A legal document, such as a contract, deed, trust, mortgage, power, indenture, or will.
A device used to produce music.
A means or agency for achieving an effect.
A tool, implement used for manipulation or measurement.
A person used as a mere tool for achieving a goal.
A measuring or displaying device.
To devise, conceive, cook up, plan.
To perform upon an instrument; to prepare for an instrument.
To apply measuring devices.