An extortionist is a person who engages in the illegal or unethical practice of demanding money or goods from others by using coercion or threats. Synonyms for the term extortionist include blackmailer, racketeer, shakedown artist, highwayman, swindler, and con artist. Thug, bully, and intimidator are also commonly used to describe individuals who use force or threats to obtain money or property. Other terms that can be used to refer to extortionists include grifters, fraudsters, and hucksters. It is important to recognize and avoid these individuals to prevent becoming a victim of their unlawful or unethical practices.