Ex*tor"tion (?), n. [F. extorsion.] 1. The act of extorting; the act or practice of wresting anything from a person by force, by threats, or by any undue exercise of power; undue exaction; overcharge.

2. (Law) The offense committed by an officer who corruptly claims and takes, as his fee, money, or other thing of value, that is not due, or more than is due, or before it is due. Abbott.

3. That which is extorted or exacted by force.

Syn. -- Oppression; rapacity; exaction; overcharge.

• the practice of extorting money or other property, especially by a public official, or by the use of threats