Spell Bee Word: ransom

Basic Details

Word: Ransom

Part of Speech: Noun

Meaning: Money that is paid to release someone who has been kidnapped or taken away.

Synonyms: Payment, hostage fee

Antonyms: Reward (in the sense of compensation for help or assistance)

Idioms and Phrases

1. Pay the ransom: To give money to secure someone's freedom. Example: "The family had to pay the ransom to get their loved one back."
2. Ransom note: A message that demands money for the release of a person. Example: "The police found a ransom note demanding a large sum for the kidnap victim."

Usage Examples

Example 1: The kidnappers asked for a huge ransom in exchange for the safe return of the businessman.

Example 2: The family felt desperate when they received the ransom demand for their child.

Example 3: The news reported how the authorities worked to intercept the ransom before it could be paid.

Fun Fact

The word "ransom" originates from the Latin word "redemptio," meaning "to buy back." This reflects the idea of rescuing someone by paying money for their release.

Famous Quote

"No one can ransom his brother or give to God a price for his life." - Psalm 49:7

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What does "ransom" mean?

a) A type of payment for goods
b) Money paid for the release of a kidnapped person
c) A form of reward for kindness
d) A cost for a service

Answer: b) Money paid for the release of a kidnapped person

2. Which of these is a synonym of "ransom"?

a) Participation
b) Payment
c) Affection
d) Punishment

Answer: b) Payment

3. What is the antonym of "ransom" in the context of compensation for help?

a) Cost
b) Reward
c) Expense
d) Price

Answer: b) Reward

4. Which sentence uses "ransom" correctly?

a) The ransom was paid in cookies.
b) The ransom allowed the birds to fly.
c) The family prepared to pay the ransom to free their child.
d) The ransom was for a race.

Answer: c) The family prepared to pay the ransom to free their child.

5. What does "ransom note" refer to?

a) A letter asking for money
b) A letter of thanks
c) A birthday card
d) A travel document

Answer: a) A letter asking for money