racketeered
/ˌrækɪˈtɪərd/
VERB
1. Coerced or forced someone through intimidation
To use threats, pressure, intimidation, or other forms of coercion to force someone to do something against their will.
1.1. Forcing someone through threats or intimidation
To compel or pressure someone into doing something by using threats, fear, bullying, or physical intimidation.
Synonyms
- arm-twisted
- badgered
- blackjacked
- browbeat
- bullied
- coerced
- compelled
- constrained
- cowed
- dragooned
- forced
- harassed
- hectored
- intimidated
- menaced
- pressured
- terrorized
- threatened
Antonyms
Examples
- The gang racketeered local business owners into paying protection money.
- The criminals racketeered vulnerable residents through threats and intimidation.
Related Words
1.2. Obtaining money or property through extortion
To obtain money, property, or other benefits from someone by applying unlawful pressure, threats, or intimidation.
Synonyms
- blackmailed
- extorted
- exacted
- squeezed
- wrested
- wrung
- high-pressured
- bullied
- pressured
- menaced
Antonyms
- allowed
- permitted
- persuaded
- convinced
Examples
- The crime syndicate racketeered money from shopkeepers by threatening their businesses.
- The gang racketeered payments from local residents in exchange for supposed protection.
Related Words
- blackmail
- extortion
- shakedown
- protection racket
- racketeering
- exploitation
- coercion
VERB
2. Engaged in organized illegal business activities
Carried out or participated in systematic criminal activities, often involving fraud, extortion, bribery, or other illegal schemes for financial gain.
2.1. Operating a criminal enterprise
To conduct illegal business operations or participate in organized criminal schemes for profit.
Synonyms
- engaged in racketeering
- committed organized crime
- conducted criminal activities
- operated an illegal enterprise
- carried out criminal schemes
Antonyms
- acted lawfully
- conducted legitimate business
- complied with the law
Examples
- The organization racketeered in counterfeit goods for several years.
- Investigators discovered that the company had racketeered through fraudulent business operations.
Related Words
- racketeering
- organized crime
- fraud
- corruption
- extortion
- criminal enterprise
- illegal business