Search Dictionary
Definition of extort

extort

/ɪkˈstɔːrt/
ex · tort
Adverb:extortionately
•
Adjective:extortionate
•
Past Simple:extorted
•
Past Participle:extorted
•
Present Participle:extorting
JUMP TO:

extort Lexical Profile

extort Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To obtain money, property, or services from a person or institution through force, intimidation, or illegal abuse of authority.

Example

"The corrupt official attempted to extort thousands of dollars from local business owners in exchange for permit approvals."

2

To compel or draw out a reluctant promise, confession, or reaction from someone through persistent pressure or necessity.

Example

"After hours of pointed questioning, the committee managed to extort a grudging apology from the executive."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for extort
Antonyms
View all antonyms for extort

• Rhymes for extort

• Nearby Words

extinguisher
extispex
extol
extort
extorter
extortion
extortionate

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Latin extortus, the past participle of extorquere, meaning 'to twist or wrench out,' formed from ex- ('out') and torquere ('to twist').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Extort. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/extort
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.