Meaning of the word "pound of flesh" in English

What does "pound of flesh" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

pound of flesh

US /paʊnd əv flɛʃ/
UK /paʊnd əv flɛʃ/

Idiom

something that is owed and that someone insists on having, even if it causes suffering to the person who owes it

Example:
The landlord demanded his pound of flesh, evicting the family despite their pleas.
After the company went bankrupt, the creditors came for their pound of flesh.