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Showing results for blackmail. Search instead for blackmai.
Definitions

blackmail

[blak-meyl] / ˈblækˌmeɪl /
NOUN
intimidation for money; money to quiet informer
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bribe bribery extortion
STRONG
exaction milking payoff protection ransom tribute
WEAK
hush money slush fund
VERB
intimidating for money
Synonyms
STRONGEST
badger coerce extort
STRONG
bleed compel demand exact force milk ransom shake squeeze threaten
WEAK
hold to ransom put the shake on shake down
Antonyms
STRONG
give save

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.

“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

Since the new law’s enactment, the Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum, a Ugandan advocacy group, has documented more than 1,200 cases of blackmail and harassment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 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

Gonzales had previously dismissed the allegations as "blackmail" and a "co-ordinated" attack to unseat him.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

Should that be the case, Booth has a foolproof plan in mind to blackmail Atzerodt into cooperating.

From "Lincoln's Last Days: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever" by Bill O'Reilly