Legal Definitions - rake-off

Definition: A rake-off is a percentage or share taken from an illegal transaction. It can also refer to an illegal bribe, payoff, or skimming of profits.

Example 1: The corrupt politician demanded a rake-off from the construction company in exchange for awarding them the contract.

Example 2: The mafia boss took a rake-off from the profits of the illegal gambling operation.

These examples illustrate how a rake-off is a form of illegal payment or profit-sharing. In both cases, someone in a position of power or influence is taking a cut of the profits in exchange for allowing illegal activities to take place. This type of behavior is unethical and often criminal.