See Also: hostage(1)(dictionary)
hostage(2)(dictionary)
hostage(dictionary)
HOSTAGE(law)
Iran hostage crisis(encyclopedia)

HOSTAGE (law)


HOSTAGE. A person delivered into the possession of a public enemy in the time of war, as a security for the performance of a contract entered into time of war, as a security for the performance of a contract entered into between the belligerents. between the belligerents. 2. Hostages are frequently given as a security for the payment of a 2. Hostages are frequently given as a security for the payment of a ransom bill, and if they should die, their death would not discharge the ransom bill, and if they should die, their death would not discharge the contract. 3 Burr. 1734; 1 Kent, Com. 106; Dane' s Ab. Index, h.t. contract. 3 Burr. 1734; 1 Kent, Com. 106; Dane' s Ab. Index, h.t.