n. [ L. exactio: cf. F. exaction. ] 1. The act of demanding with authority, and compelling to pay or yield; compulsion to give or furnish; a levying by force; a driving to compliance; as, the exaction to tribute or of obedience; hence, extortion. [ 1913 Webster ] Take away your exactions from my people. Ezek. xlv. 9. [ 1913 Webster ] Daily new exactions are devised. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] Illegal exactions of sheriffs and officials. Bancroft. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. That which is exacted; a severe tribute; a fee, reward, or contribution, demanded or levied with severity or injustice. Daniel. [ 1913 Webster ] |