abduct
ab-DUKT
/æbˈdʌkt/
To take someone away illegally by force or deception; kidnap.
Emphasizes the unlawful removal or seizure of a person against their will.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'abducere', combining 'ab-' (away from) and 'ducere' (to lead), literally meaning to lead someone away unlawfully.
Word relationships
- kidnap: Kidnap is more common in everyday speech; abduct is preferred in official legal contexts.
- release: Release means to set free from custody or constraint.
Commonly confused with
- sequestrate: Sequestrate applies legally to isolating property or a jury, whereas abduct applies to forced removal of persons.
Word family
- abduction (noun): The action of forcibly taking someone away.
- abductor (noun): A person who abducts someone.
Collocations
- attempt to abduct
- abduct a child
- conspire to abduct
Example sentences
- "Police launched a multi-state search after suspects attempted to abduct a local business executive." News report
Memory hook
ABDUCT = AB (away) + DUCT (lead), to lead someone away by force. Forcibly take away.
When not to use
Do not use for taking inanimate objects or property.
Fun facts
- In medical terminology, 'abduction' refers to moving a limb away from the body's midline, sharing the exact same Latin root.
Related words
Also appears in
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