Vocabulary Spotlight
Captives
Part of Speech: Noun (plural)
Definition: Individuals who have been taken prisoner or confined against their will.
“The captives awaited their release after negotiations were successful.”
Pronunciation
[kap-tivz]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Detainees
Hostages
Inmates
Captors
Antonyms
Liberated
Independent
Unconfined
Escapees
Related Words
Detainment
Imprisonment
Word Origin
The word “captive” originates from the Latin word “captivus,” meaning “taken or captured.” It entered English in the late Middle Ages, referring to someone held under control or imprisoned.
Word Family
Noun: Captivity – The state of being held or confined.
Adjective: Captive – Held in confinement or under restraint.
Verb: Captivate – To hold or attract interest or affection.
Mnemonics
Think of “Captive” as “Captured” – someone held against their will, similar to being held in captivity.
Industry-specific Usage
Law Enforcement
In law enforcement, captives refer to individuals detained or held for questioning or as prisoners.
Wildlife Conservation
Captivity is often used to describe animals kept for conservation, education, or protection from extinction.
Literature
In literature, captives often symbolize restriction or challenges, highlighting themes of freedom and resilience.
In Context
Captives may refer to individuals held against their will in conflicts, or symbolically, to describe anything that is held under control or in confinement. In many stories, the idea of captivity invokes themes of hope, courage, and the desire for freedom.