We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.


Emolument

Something you use to moisturize your skin.

Er, that's emollient.

An emolument is a personal benefit someone derives from an office or position. If you get a salary from your employer, that's technically an emolument. But if you're in a job interview and they start talking about how your emolument for the position is $18.50 an hour...you've found a weirdly pretentious potential employer.

The word "emolument" is most famous for appearing in the U.S. Constitution, in the so-called "emoluments clause." This section bans federal office holders from receiving a benefit (or, as James Madison would call it, an emolument) from a foreign country...unless, of course, Congress gives the okay first.

Find other enlightening terms in Shmoop Finance Genius Bar(f)