rehén
“rehén” means “hostage” in Spanish (person held against their will).
hostage
Also: captive
📝 In Action
La policía negoció la liberación de los rehenes a cambio de un coche.
B1The police negotiated the release of the hostages in exchange for a car.
El secuestrador amenazó con herir al rehén si no cumplían sus demandas.
B2The kidnapper threatened to harm the hostage if they didn't meet his demands.
Ella fue tomada como rehén durante el asalto al banco.
B2She was taken as a hostage during the bank robbery.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: rehén
Question 1 of 2
Which Spanish phrase correctly means 'They took ten hostages'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from Old Spanish 'refén' and ultimately from the Arabic 'rahn,' meaning 'pledge' or 'guarantee.' In early history, a 'rehén' was a person given as collateral to ensure that promises were kept, evolving into the modern meaning of someone held by force.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'rehén' used in figurative language, or just for literal kidnapping?
'Rehén' is primarily used in literal, serious contexts involving kidnapping or armed conflict. You might occasionally hear it used figuratively (e.g., 'ser rehén de las circunstancias' - 'to be a hostage to circumstances'), but its main use is literal.
How do I say 'hostage situation'?
The most common and natural way to say 'hostage situation' in Spanish is 'toma de rehenes' (literally 'taking of hostages') or 'situación de rehenes'.