What does the term "usury" refer to?

The term "usury" refers specifically to the practice of lending money at exorbitant, often unfairly high interest rates. Historically, usury has carried a negative connotation, as it is associated with exploiting borrowers who may be in desperate need of funds. This practice raises ethical concerns and can lead to a cycle of debt that is difficult for borrowers to escape.

While some might confuse usury with lending at reasonable rates or think of it as a form of investment, the essence of usury fundamentally lies in its excessive nature. It does not pertain to charitable practices, which would involve giving without expecting anything in return. Therefore, the distinction that usury implies high interest rates is what makes the correct answer clear and accurate.