Pronunciation: [hˈɒstɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
The word "hostage" is spelled with seven letters and pronounced as /ˈhɒstɪdʒ/. The first syllable "hos" is pronounced with the short o sound /ɒ/, while the second syllable "tage" is pronounced with the long a sound /eɪ/. The letter G in the word is silent, so it should not be pronounced. Hostage refers to a person who is held captive by another person or a group of people, usually in exchange for something else.
A hostage is an individual who is held captive by a person or a group as a means to exert control or force concessions from others. It refers to a situation in which a person's freedom and autonomy are forcibly restrained against their will. Hostages are often seized by individuals or organizations engaging in unlawful or coercive activities such as terrorism, kidnapping, or extortion.
Typically, a hostage is taken as a form of leverage, intending to manipulate the actions or decisions of others. This can be done to gain certain political or economic advantages, influence government policies, or demand specific demands from those in power. Hostages are commonly used as bargaining chips, as their wellbeing and safety become contingent upon the satisfaction of the captors' demands.
Being held hostage creates a highly precarious situation for the captive individuals, as they often face imminent threats, physical harm, or even death if their captors' demands are not met. Hostages are often subjected to psychological torment, limited access to basic needs, and occasional violence to induce compliance or exert control over their behavior.
Efforts to secure the safe release of hostages usually involve negotiation, diplomatic channels, and occasionally military operations. The release of hostages may require a range of concessions, such as the payment of ransom, prisoner exchanges, or changes in governmental policies. The protection and safe liberation of hostages are crucial concerns for law enforcement agencies, international organizations, and governments across the world.
The word "hostage" originated from the Old French term "ostege" in the 13th century. It derived from the Medieval Latin word "hostaticum", which referred to a pledge or security given by a guest to their host. This Latin term, in turn, came from the Late Latin word "hostis", meaning "enemy" or "stranger". The idea behind the term was that a hostage was a person given or taken as a pledge in a conflict, often as security against the fulfillment of certain conditions or as a guarantee for the safe return of others. The word "hostage" has since retained its meaning and usage in various languages around the world.
