Main Entry: ex·tort

Pronunciation: \ik-ˈstȯrt\

Function: transitive verb

Etymology: Latin extortus, past participle of extorquēre to wrench out, extort, from ex- + torquēre to twist — more at torture

Date: 15th century

: to obtain from a person by force, intimidation, or undue or illegal power : wring; also : to gain especially by ingenuity or compelling argument

synonyms see educe

— ex·tort·er noun

— ex·tor·tive \-ˈstȯr-tiv\ adjective