Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Kidnap \Kid"nap`\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Kidnaped}or {Kidnapped};
   p. pr. & vb. n. {Kidnaping} or {Kidnapping}.] [Kid a child +
   Prov. E. nap to seize, to grasp. Cf. {Knab}, {Knap}, {Nab}.]
   To take (any one) by force or fear, and against one's will,
   with intent to carry to another place. --Abbott.

         You may reason or expostulate with the parents, but
         never attempt to kidnap their children, and to make
         proselytes of them.                      --Whately.

   Note: Originally used only of stealing children, but now
         extended in application to any human being,
         involuntarily abducted.