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Definitions

blackmail

[blak-meyl] / ˈblækˌmeɪl /
NOUN
intimidation for money; money to quiet informer
Synonyms




Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They claim that the laws are widely abused as a blackmail tool in divorces, enrich lawyers and let spouses who misbehave off the hook, treating them as passive objects with no agency.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

“That’s an extraordinary source of revenue — also a reminder that they essentially have a blackmail card up their sleeve,” he added.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Orbán's actions amounted to "a gross act of disloyalty", while European Council head António Costa described them as tantamount to "blackmail".

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

This is when “Heel” is at its most alluringly queasy, a dark commentary on all families as institutions inherently built on confinement and emotional blackmail.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

Three times Sammy drove past the water tower on St. Catherine’s Island to make sure that no one was lying in wait to apprehend the author of the blackmail note.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy




Vocabulary lists containing blackmail