extortionate, a.
(ɛkˈstɔːʃənət)
[f. as prec. + -ate2.]
a. Of persons, their qualities or actions: Characterized by extortion. b. Of prices, money demands: Grossly excessive, exorbitant.
| 1789 Mrs. Piozzi Journ. France I. 119 The inns are very extortionate. 1844 H. H. Wilson Brit. India I. 457 The amount is not extortionate. a 1845 Hood Knt. & Dragon ii, He pounced down like a vulture, And..Out of every man's meal Took a very extortionate multure. 1853 C. Brontë Villette xli. (1876) 472 You are in good hands. M. Miret will not be extortionate. 1885 Manch. Exam. 8 May 5/3 The interest was extortionate and excessive. |