Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
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.

This exemplary service failed to account for her disturbingly poor judgment, risking blackmail and conflict-of-interest allegations, since the Atlanta Police Department appears before her court; nor her lack of candor to the court.

From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026

In a brief statement to the press before surrendering to police at the senate premises, Estrada described the charges as part of an attempt to blackmail him.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

The prosecution argued the payments amounted to blackmail and that her report of rape to the police was false.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Part of Ashley’s story is using the video of the fight between Josh and Lindsay as blackmail to get health insurance so she can afford treatment for her endometriosis.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

I remember feeling dimly that there was a kind of blackmail in it.

From "The Fire Next Time" by James Baldwin




Vocabulary lists containing blackmail


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "blackmail" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com