extortion Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an exorbitant charge
  2. noun unjust exaction (as by the misuse of authority)
    • the extortion by dishonest officials of fees for performing their sworn duty
  3. noun the felonious act of extorting money (as by threats of violence)

WordNet

Ex*tor"tion noun
Etymology
F. extorsion.
Definitions
  1. The act of extorting; the act or practice of wresting anything from a person by force, by threats, or by any undue exercise of power; undue exaction; overcharge.
  2. (Law) The offense committed by an officer who corruptly claims and takes, as his fee, money, or other thing of value, that is not due, or more than is due, or before it is due. Abbott.
  3. That which is extorted or exacted by force. Syn. -- Oppression; rapacity; exaction; overcharge.

Webster 1913