What is the meaning of usury?

Usury refers specifically to the practice of lending money at unreasonably high interest rates. This term is often associated with exploitative financial practices where the lender takes advantage of the borrower's need for funds, charging exorbitant fees that may lead to a cycle of debt. Historical contexts often view usury as unethical or even illegal, particularly in religious texts that condemn excessive interest rates. Understanding usury as the act of lending money at high interest captures the essence of its connotation, focusing on the exploitative nature of the transaction. Thus, the choice clearly aligns with the accepted definition in both economic and social contexts.