extortion

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   unjust exaction (as by the misuse of authority)

   the extortion by dishonest officials of fees for performing their sworn duty

2. 2
   noun

   The practice of extorting money or other property by the use of force or threats.

   Heck, what's a little extortion among friends?

3. 3
   noun

   the felonious act of extorting money (as by threats of violence)

4. 4
   noun

   an exorbitant charge

Etymology

From Anglo-Norman extorcion, extorcioun, extorsioun, from Late Latin extortiō, from extorqueō.