Extorting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
extorting
[ษชkหstษหrtษชล ]
Definition
illegal act
Extorting refers to the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force, threats, or coercion. It is often considered a criminal offense and is associated with various types of blackmail or bribery.
Synonyms
blackmail, coerce, intimidate, pressure, threaten.
Examples of usage
- The gangster was arrested for extorting money from local businesses.
- She was threatened with exposure unless she paid the extorting sum.
- The hacker attempted extorting sensitive information from the company.
- He was charged with extorting funds from the politician.
Translations
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Origin of 'extorting'
The term 'extort' originates from the Latin word 'extorere', which means 'to twist out' or 'to wrest away'. This root indicates the sense of forcibly removing something from someone. The word evolved in Middle English in the 14th century, being influenced by legal and criminal contexts in which the act of extortion was prevalent. Extortion has historically been linked to organized crime, where individuals or groups use intimidation or coercive tactics to extract money or valuable assets from victims. Over time, the legal definitions and punishments associated with extortion have become more refined as societies evolved and crime control measures were established.