Definition

The act of obtaining something, usually money, through force, threats, or pressure.

Example

The criminal was arrested for extortion after demanding money from the business owner.

Conversation

Did you hear about that case of extortion in the news?

Yeah, it’s shocking how some people take advantage of others like that.

I can't believe they were demanding so much money for nothing.

It's definitely an unfair practice that needs to be stopped.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Extortion → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "torre" (from Latin "torre" meaning to twist or torture). The word describes the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats, effectively twisting someone's arm to get what one wants.

Memory Tip

Think of someone forcing or 'twisting' ('torre') someone to give up something 'out of' ('ex-') fear or pressure — that's why extortion means obtaining something through coercion.

Visually Confused Words