1. people who are held captive by someone and threatened with harm unless certain demands are met
Usage: plural of hostage

Examples

• The terrorists took several hostages during the bank robbery.
• Negotiations continued for hours to secure the release of the hostages.
• The hostages were freed after police surrounded the building.
• All hostages were reported to be in good health.
• The kidnappers demanded money in exchange for the hostages.
• Special forces trained extensively for hostage rescue operations.