noun
Street Slang
protection
pruh-TEK-shun · noun · slang
An extortion racket sold as security to businesses.
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Definitions
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'Protection' is a racket in which criminals demand payment from a business in exchange for not harming it, dressed up as a security service.
“The diner paid protection so its windows wouldn't get smashed.”
by community
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protection In A Sentence
The diner paid protection so its windows wouldn't get smashed.
Origin & Usage
American organized-crime slang, early 20th century.
People Also Ask
What is a 'protection' racket?
It is an extortion scheme where criminals demand payment from a business in return for not harming it, framed as if they were selling a security service.
What are you actually paying for?
You are paying to be left alone. The 'protection' is chiefly from the very people collecting it, who threaten damage or violence if you refuse to pay.
Where does the term come from?
It comes from American organized-crime slang of the early 20th century.
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