Synonyms of extortion

extortion

noun

ik-ˈstȯr-shən 

as in cheating

the exaction of a grossly excessive charge for goods or services

six dollars for a cup of coffee is just plain extortion

Synonyms & Similar Words

• cheating
• gouging
• highway robbery
• fleecing
• overcharging
• swindling
• defrauding
• skinning
• chiseling

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of extortion

Six gang members have been convicted on charges that include kidnapping, extortion and torture in a conspiracy to smuggle baseball players and other migrants to the United States, with the crimes dating back as far as 2009. — Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 18 Aug. 2026

Past breaches, like Ledger's, led to extortion and even a co-founder's kidnapping, underscoring the severe risks. — Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

But in a state where numerous local cartels make money not only from drugs but also from extortion, there are plenty of possibilities. — ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026

But the judge also noted Krneta’s dual role in facilitating the corruption of Tobolski, both paying bribes and collecting extortion payments from other contractors on the then-mayor’s behalf. — Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026