Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

shylock

noun

/ˈʃaɪlɒk/

Definition

Shylock refers to a person who lends money at exorbitant interest rates, often at the expense of the borrower.

Examples

Many view him as a Shylock for the way he capitalizes on people’s financial struggles.
In the world of finance, a shylock is often seen as someone who preys on the vulnerable.
He was called a shylock because of his ruthless business practices.

Meaning

The term often carries a negative connotation, suggesting greed and exploitation, and is derived from a character in Shakespeare’s play ‘The Merchant of Venice’.