The correct spelling of the word is "extortion" /ɪkˈstɔː(r)ʃ(ə)n/. The word comes from the Latin "extorsio" meaning "a twisting out," which is reflected in the spelling with the letter "x". In English, the word is pronounced with stress on the second syllable and ends with "-tion," representing the suffix that typically indicates a noun form. Common misspellings of the word include "extorsion" and "extrortion," which may be inadvertent typographical errors or misspoken versions of the word.
Extortion, also spelled as "extortion," is a noun that refers to the act of obtaining something, often money or property, from someone else through coercion or force. It involves the use of threats, intimidation, or abuse of power to obtain a benefit or advantage that one is not entitled to. Extortion is considered a criminal offense and is illegal in most jurisdictions.
The primary characteristic of extortion is the use of fear or violence to compel victims into complying with the demands of the perpetrator. This can include threats of physical harm, damage to property, or spreading damaging information. It is commonly associated with organized crime, where individuals or groups use extortion tactics to exert control, gain monetary benefits, or maintain influence over individuals, businesses, or communities.
For extortion to occur, there must be an imbalance of power or a position of authority. Perpetrators may exploit personal relationships, professional positions, or knowledge of sensitive information to manipulate victims into meeting their demands. This can include demands for money, signing over property rights, or providing other valuable assets.
Extortion is punishable by law in many countries, and penalties may vary depending on the jurisdiction and severity of the offense. Law enforcement agencies actively investigate and prosecute cases of extortion to protect individuals and uphold societal norms of fairness and justice.
It is important to note that extortion differs from legitimate transactions or negotiations, as it involves coercion and the use of illegitimate means to obtain benefits or advantages.
Outward rotation of a limb or of an organ such as the eye.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word extorsion is derived from the Latin word extorsio, which ultimately comes from the Latin verb extorquere. Extorquere is a combination of the prefix ex- (meaning out or away) and the verb torquere (meaning to twist or to wring). Thus, the original meaning of extorsio was to twist out or to wrench away. Over time, the word evolved and came to refer specifically to the act of obtaining something through force, threats, or illegal means, giving us the modern term extortion.