Definition of the word usurious

The word "usurious" originates from the Latin adjective "usurarius," which means "practicing usury." Usury, in turn, is derived from the Latin verb "utiō," meaning "to use." Initially, the Latin word "usurā" referred to all forms of interest. However, it became a pejorative term because of the significant interest rates that some lenders demanded, which the Catholic Church deemed immoral and unjust. The concept of usury had religious underpinnings, as the Church's stance on lending with interest was based on biblical teachings that spoke against usury explicitly. For example, the Old Testament's Book of Deuteronomy prohibited charging interest on loans to fellow Israelites. The Church's prohibition against usury in medieval Europe led to the development of a complex system of loans, tithes, and donations to avoid breaking the ban. This system involved the use of various forms of financial transactions designed to prevent lenders from charging interest in cash, while still receiving sustenance or collateral as compensation. As a result of this religious influence, the usage of "usurious" as a derogatory term to describe excessive charges or loan practices with unjust interest rates is still in use today. In modern times, it connotes immorality, exploitation, and oppression, highlighting the historical and religious significance of the word.