rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryblackmailThreatened disclosure
noun / verb

blackmail

BLAK-mayl/ˈblækmeɪl/

Forcing someone to comply by threatening to reveal damaging information.

The threat to reveal the compromising photograph turns the demand for money into blackmail.

A blackmailer demands money while threatening to show a married man's compromising photograph to his nearby wife.
Etymology
blackOld Englishblack, dark
+mailMiddle Englishrent, tribute

Here “black” marks the evil of the practice, while “mail” means tribute: originally, payment demanded for protection against pillage. The meaning broadened to extortion by intimidation, especially threats to expose damaging information.

In context

Storytime Haven336:04
you manifested, several times, in a manner there was no mistaking, both by words and deeds, an intention of levying blackmail on me by using your knowledge of my ridiculous, unmaidenly act.
✨ The Man by Bram Stoker | A Tale of Love, Courage & Destiny 📖

More examples

  • He tried to blackmail the official into changing her vote.
  • The witness reported being blackmailed by a former colleague.
  • The plot revolves around a failed attempt at blackmail.

Forms

blackmail · blackmails · blackmailed · blackmailing

Similar words

extortion
A broader use of threats to obtain money or compliance.
coercion
Forces action through pressure without necessarily threatening exposure.