Definition

Noun: A person who obtains money, property, or services from someone through coercion or intimidation, typically by threatening harm or the exposure of damaging information.

Usage

The term "extortioner" specifically labels a person who commits the crime of extortion. It is a formal and legal term. The act involves illegal demands backed by threats. - The businessman paid the extortioner to keep the scandal secret. - The gang leader was identified as the extortioner who threatened local shop owners.

Advanced Usage

• "Ruthless extortioner": Emphasizes the cruel and uncompromising nature of the person.
  • The community lived in fear of the ruthless extortioner.
• "Notorious extortioner": Describes an extortioner who is widely and unfavorably known.
  • The police finally arrested the notorious extortioner who had plagued the city for years.

Variants and Related Words

• Extortionist (noun): A direct synonym for "extortioner," often used interchangeably.
  • The extortionist demanded cash in exchange for silence.
• Blackmailer (noun): A specific type of extortioner who threatens to reveal disgraceful or damaging information.
  • The blackmailer sent anonymous letters threatening to expose the affair.

Synonyms

• Blackmailer: One who extorts by threatening to reveal compromising information.
• Racketeer: A person who engages in illegal business schemes, often involving extortion.
• Shakedown artist: (Informal) A person who uses threats or pressure to extract money.

Related Phrases

• To engage in extortion: To carry out the act of extortion.
  • The corrupt official was accused of engaging in extortion.
• A victim of extortion: A person from whom money or property is illegally obtained through threats.
  • She became a victim of extortion after the thief stole her private letters.

Noun

1. a criminal who extorts money from someone by threatening to expose embarrassing information about them