The sum paid for the use of money, hence interest; not, as in the modern sense, exorbitant interest. The Jews were forbidden to exact usury (Leviticus 25:36, 37), only, however, in their dealings with each other (Deuteronomy 23:19, 20). The violation of this law was viewed as a great crime (Psalm 15:5; Proverbs 28:8; Jeremiah 15:10). After the Return, and later, this law was much neglected (Nehemiah 5:7, 10).

Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (n.) The practice of lending money at an excessive rate of interest.

2. (v. t.) Interest in excess of a legal rate charged to a borrower for the use of money.