Definition

1. Noun:

   • A person who engages in illegal activities for financial gain: A racketeer is someone who systematically commits crimes, particularly fraud or extortion, to make money. This term is often associated with organized crime.

2. Verb:

   • To engage in or operate a dishonest or illegal business: To racketeer means to carry on illegal business activities, typically involving a pattern of crime such as extortion or fraud.

Usage and Examples

• As a Noun:

  • The notorious racketeer was finally arrested for running a protection scam.
  • The investigation revealed a network of racketeers controlling the city's ports.

• As a Verb:

  • The corrupt officials were accused of racketeering to fund their lavish lifestyles.
  • The gang racketeered for years before the authorities dismantled their operation.

Advanced Usage and Context

• "Racketeering" (Gerund/Noun): The act or practice of engaging in a racket (a dishonest business).
  • He was charged with racketeering and conspiracy.
• Legal Context: In U.S. law, "racketeer" is a key term in statutes like the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), which targets organized crime.
  • The prosecution built a RICO case to convict the mob boss and his fellow racketeers.

Variants and Related Words

• Racketeering (n): The systematic engagement in illegal business activities.
  • The company was involved in large-scale racketeering.
• Racket (n): A dishonest or illegal activity carried out for profit; can also mean a loud noise.
  • He was running a protection racket in the neighborhood.

Synonyms

• Criminal: A person who has committed a crime.
• Extortionist: A person who obtains money through threats or force.
• Swindler: A person who uses deception to deprive someone of money or property.
• Gangster: A member of an organized gang of criminals.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "To run a racket": To operate a dishonest or illegal scheme for profit.
  • They were running a sophisticated gambling racket.
• "Racketeering charges": Legal accusations related to operating an illegal business enterprise.
  • The businessman faced serious racketeering charges.

Noun

1. someone who commits crimes for profit (especially one who obtains money by fraud or extortion)

Verb

1. carry on illegal business activities involving crime