Meaning & Definition of word "Captive"
to
Captive
/ˈkæptɪv/
noun:
- 1. A person or animal that is confined or restrained, often against their will.
- Example: The soldiers rescued the captives from the enemy camp.
- 2. An animal that has been tamed or domesticated.
- Example: The zoo houses many captives that were unable to survive in the wild.
adjective:
- 1. Being held in confinement or under physical restraint.
- Example: The captive agents were eventually released after negotiations.
- 2. Having the attention of someone or being fully engaged.
- Example: The audience sat in captive silence as the magician performed his tricks.
Etymology
Middle English: from Old French 'captive' or Latin 'captivus', meaning 'taken or seized'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
captive audience:
An audience that is unable to leave or escape, often used in a context of entertainment or teaching.
captive breeding:
The breeding of animals outside their natural habitat, typically in facilities that provide care and safety.
Related Words
capture:
To take possession or control of someone or something.
captivity:
The state of being kept imprisoned or confined.
Slang Meanings of captive
Meaning: In a tight spot
Example Sentence: I'm really a captive in this situation with no way out.
Meaning: Trapped
Example Sentence: I feel captive in this long meeting.