ransom

The story

1. Latinred-
2. Proto-Indo-European*h₁em-
3. Proto-Indo-European*h₁émeti
4. Proto-Italic*emō
5. Latinemō
6. Latinredimō
7. Latinredemptiō
8. Old Frenchraençon
9. Middle Englishraunsoun
10. English todayransom

From the Middle English raunsoun, from the Old French raençon, from stem of Latin redēmptiō. Entered English ca. the 13th century. Doublet of redemption.

Words from the same roots

First known use, by meaning

• 14th century To deliver, especially in context of sin or relevant penalties.