a. [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.
