extort
UK: ɪkˈstɔːt | US: ɪkˈstɔːrt
vt. to obtain something by force, threats, or other unfair means
extort = ex<out> + tort<twist>
- ex: Latin prefix meaning "out" or "away."
- tort: From Latin tortus (past participle of torquere), meaning "to twist."
Etymology Origin:
The word "extort" originates from Latin extortus, the past participle of extorquere ("to wrench out, obtain by force"). The root tort reflects the metaphorical idea of "twisting" someone's will to extract money or favors unlawfully. Over time, it evolved into English with the specific legal and coercive connotation it holds today.
The criminals tried to extort money from the businessman by threatening his family.
Corrupt officials were caught extorting bribes from local shop owners.
He refused to be extorted and reported the blackmail to the police.
Extorting confidential information is a serious cybercrime.
The gang used fake evidence to extort a confession from the suspect.