extortionist

American  

[ik-stawr-shuh-nist] / ɪkˈstɔr ʃə nɪst /

Or extortioner

noun

1. a person who engages in extortion.

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Usage

What does extortionist mean? An extortionist is someone who practices extortion—the act of using violence, threats, intimidation, or pressure from one’s authority to force someone to hand over money (or something else of value) or do something they don’t want to do. The word extortioner means the same exact thing.Extortion and the verb extort are commonly used in this literal sense, but they can also be used in a few more general or figurative ways.Extort can mean to overcharge someone for something or to obtain through relentless and unreasonable demands. In both of these cases, a person who does so can be called an extortionist or an extortioner. These senses liken such actions to the actual crime of extortion.Example: Mobsters are often extortionists, meaning they extort money from small business owners through intimidation.

Etymology

Origin of extortionist

First recorded in 1880–85; extortion + -ist

Example Sentences

Nike, in court documents, portrays him as an extortionist who seized on the lapsed trademark for money.

From The Wall Street Journal

He said the law could also help end extortionist demands on the state, and in some cases "nil compensation" could be justified.

From BBC

In a hostile cross-examination, the defense sought to paint him as a serial extortionist.

From New York Times

"We need to flood the north with aid," Mr McGoldrick said, "so it doesn't become a product that people want to use for extortionist purposes or the black market."

From BBC

In the conversation, Adelson told Magbanua that she would need to meet with the extortionist and agree to a one-time payment.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• loan shark
• mobster