exaction

noun
ex·​ac·​tion | \ ig-ˈzak-shən How to pronounce exaction (audio) \

Definition of exaction

1a : the act or process of exacting
b : extortion
2 : something exacted especially : a fee, reward, or contribution demanded or levied with severity or injustice

Examples of exaction in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Command of an army division could be purchased for $2 million, whereupon the buyer might recoup his investment with exactions from the civilian population. Andrew Cockburn, Harper's magazine, "No Joe!," 10 June 2019

First Known Use of exaction

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

History and Etymology for exaction

Middle English exaccioun, borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French exaccion, borrowed from Latin exāctiōn-, exāctiō "driving out, demanding of payment," from exigere "to drive out, enforce payment of or the performance of (a task)" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at exact entry 1

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