Extorted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Law

• In legal terms, extortion is often classified as a crime and can involve threats to personal safety or property.
• Many countries have specific laws against extortion, imposing severe penalties to deter individuals from engaging in such activities.
• Extortion can take various forms, including blackmail, where threats are made to expose embarrassing secrets for money.

Psychology

• Individuals who extort may often use fear as a tool, understanding the psychological impact of threats on their victims.
• Studies suggest that extortion can lead to anxiety and trauma for victims, affecting their mental health long after the act.
• The act of extorting demonstrates a power imbalance, where the extorter feels a need to exert control over another person.

Pop Culture

• Movies often depict extortion as a dramatic plot point, showcasing the conflict between the extorter and their victim.
• Many famous mob-related films illustrate the dynamics of extortion within crime families, bringing the issue into public consciousness.
• Songs and books sometimes address themes of extortion, criticizing both the perpetrators and the systems that enable such behavior.

Historical Context

• Extortion-like practices have been documented throughout history, dating back to ancient civilizations where powerful figures would demand tribute from weaker communities.
• Victorian England saw a rise in extortion cases, often linked to societal changes and the rise of urban crime.
• During wars, extortion can escalate, with soldiers or groups demanding supplies and shelter from civilians through threats.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Latin 'extortus,' which means 'to twist out.' It relates to the idea of twisting or forcing someone to give up something.
• The term has been in use in English since the late 15th century, originally referring to obtaining something with power or threat.
• Historically, extortion has been linked closely to organized crime, where threats are used to extract money or services.

The term 'extorted' derives from the Latin word 'extortus', which is the past participle of 'extorquere'. 'Extorquere' combines 'ex-', meaning 'out', with 'torquere', meaning 'to twist' or 'to turn'. This etymology reflects the essence of the word, implying the twisting of someone's arm to make them give something against their will. The usage of 'extort' in English can be traced back to the late 15th century, where it initially referred to the act of obtaining something forcibly. Over time, it has evolved to encompass various forms of coercion beyond physical violence, often being associated with legal contexts, financial crimes, and criminal activities. The concept of extortion has been significant in law, as it establishes critical boundaries around the use of threats in obtaining money or property.

Positioned at #22,191, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 22188 despaired
• 22189 fearsome
• 22190 actualization
• 22191 extorted
• 22192 exploitative
• 22193 sentinels
• 22194 disparaging
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