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extortion

noun

ex·​tor·​tion ik-ˈstȯr-shən How to pronounce extortion (audio)
1
: the act or practice of extorting especially money or other property
especially : the offense committed by an official engaging in such practice
2
: something extorted
especially : a gross overcharge
extortioner noun
extortionist noun

Examples of extortion in a Sentence

He was arrested and charged with extortion. six dollars for a cup of coffee is just plain extortion
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Baldoni denied the allegations and countersued, accusing Lively of defamation and extortion. Jessica Wang, EW.com, 22 May 2025 Baldoni denied the allegations and filed a countersuit in January alleging defamation and extortion against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds and their publicity team. Benjamin Vanhoose, People.com, 22 May 2025 Last, the Prime plan comes in at $17.99 and adds on dark web monitoring, credit monitoring, identity theft insurance, and cyber extortion insurance. PC Magazine, 19 May 2025 Stuart, who last week was notified of a series of arrests in connection with the extortion of her son, said parents need to be more assertive and resourceful in discussing the risks with each other and with children. Scott MacFarlane 18, CBS News, 18 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for extortion

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of extortion was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extortion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/extortion. Accessed 30 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

extortion

noun
ex·​tor·​tion ik-ˈstȯr-shən How to pronounce extortion (audio)
: the practice or crime of extorting (as money)
extortioner noun
extortionist noun

Legal Definition

extortion

noun
ex·​tor·​tion ik-ˈstȯr-shən How to pronounce extortion (audio)
1
: the act or practice of extorting especially money or other property
specifically : the act or practice of extorting by a public official acting under color of office
2
: the crime of extorting
extortionate adjective
extortioner noun
extortionist noun

More from Merriam-Webster on extortion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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