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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

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

“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

"Nobody can blackmail the European institutions," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

Take it easy; anger won't help any more than blackmail did.

From "The Westing Game" by Ellen Raskin




Vocabulary lists containing blackmail