emoluments

Emoluments refer to compensation, benefits, or profits arising from holding a position or from employment. The term covers salaries, wages, fees, allowances, and other perquisites or profits that accrue to a person as a result of official duties or services.

Etymology: It derives from the Latin emolumentum “a profit, benefit,” from emolere “to grind down, obtain by labor.” In English, the form emerged in the 16th century and is often used in formal or legal contexts.

In constitutional and administrative law, emoluments are items of compensation that may not improperly influence duties. The United States Constitution contains the Emoluments Clause, prohibiting federal officials from accepting presents, emoluments, offices, or titles from foreign states without congressional consent. The clause is intended to prevent foreign influence or corruption and is frequently cited in discussions of conflicts of interest and fiscal propriety.

Outside government, emoluments simply mean compensation for work or services, including salary, bonuses, fees, and other benefits arising from employment. In some jurisdictions, the word appears in statutes governing public officials, while in private law it may be used synonymously with remuneration.

Related terms include the Emoluments Clause, remuneration, salary, and perquisites.