extortion etymology

Etymology:

  • Latin: extorquēre ("to wring out")
  • French: extorquer ("to extort")

Meaning:

The act of obtaining money or property from someone by threats or coercion.

Origin:

The term "extortion" first appeared in the 16th century, derived from the Latin verb "extorquere," meaning "to wring out." The word originally described the practice of extracting confessions under torture, but its usage gradually expanded to include any form of coercion or blackmail.

In the 17th century, the term "extortion" was used to describe the actions of corrupt officials who demanded bribes or payments in return for favors. By the 19th century, extortion had become a serious crime in many countries, as it threatened the safety and prosperity of individuals and businesses.

Today, extortion remains a prevalent crime, with perpetrators using various methods of intimidation and threats to extort money or property from their victims. It is considered a serious offense, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.

extortion relate terms

  • torque

    Etymology Derived from the Latin word torquere meaning to twist or to turn Me

  • extortionate

    Etymology From Middle French extorsionner to extort from Late Latin extorsionare

  • extortion

    Etymology Latin extorquēre to wring out French extorquer to extort Meaning

  • blackmail

    Etymology The word blackmail is derived from the Middle English phrase blake male

  • felony

    Etymology Middle English felonie from Old French felonie Old French from Latin fell

  • tribute

    Etymology Middle English tribut from Old French trebut tribut from Latin tributum

  • protection

    Etymology The word protection comes from the Old French word protection which in tur

  • exaction

    Etymology From Middle French exaction from Late Latin exactio a demand exaction f

  • panic

    Etymology The word panic originates from the Greek god Pan who was associated with na

  • costume

    Etymology From Old French costume from Late Latin consuetudo meaning custom usage

  • mitigate

    Etymology The word mitigate comes from the Latin word mitigare which means to make

  • identity

    Etymology Identity derives from the Latin word identitas which in turn comes from the