German Conversation · Level 103
56 words
German word
Geisel
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈgaɪ̯zl̩/
Meaning
- feminine nounhostage
Example
Die Geisel wurde freigelassen.
The hostage was released.
More examples
Beim Einsatz konnten die Spezialeinheiten mehrere Geiseln retten.
During the operation, the special forces were able to rescue several hostages.
Core concept
A captive person used to pressure others into agreeing or acting.
Common phrases
in Geiselhaft sein
be held hostage
die Geisel retten
rescue the hostage
Verhandlungen um die Geiseln führen
conduct negotiations over the hostages
Similar words
Gefangener: A person held captive during war or in connection with a crime.
Entführungsopfer: A victim forcibly taken away in a kidnapping.
Definition in German
Eine Person, die als Druckmittel festgehalten wird, damit Dritte Forderungen erfüllen oder Zugeständnisse machen.
Word origin
The Germanic noun Geisel developed from Old High German gisal and Middle High German geisel; its deeper origin is uncertain.
Usage tips
- The usual expression for taking someone hostage is jemanden als Geisel nehmen, with als marking the person's role.
Related words
- Geiselnahmehostage-takingnoun
- Geiselbefreiunghostage rescuenoun