Ran·som, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Ransomed p. pr. & vb. n. Ransoming.]
1. To redeem from captivity, servitude, punishment, or forfeit, by paying a price; to buy out of servitude or penalty; to rescue; to deliver; as, to ransom prisoners from an enemy.
2. To exact a ransom for, or a payment on. [R.]
Such lands as he had rule of he ransomed them so grievously, and would tax the men two or three times in a year. --Berners.
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