Meaning of the word blackmail in English
What does blackmail mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
blackmail
US /ˈblæk.meɪl/
UK /ˈblæk.meɪl/
Noun
1.
the action, treated as a criminal offense, of demanding money from a person in return for not revealing compromising or damaging information about them.
Example:
•
He was arrested for attempting to blackmail a wealthy businessman.
•
The politician claimed he was a victim of blackmail.
Verb
1.
demand money or another benefit from (someone) in return for not revealing compromising or damaging information about them.
Example:
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They tried to blackmail him with old photographs.
•
She refused to be blackmailed into signing the contract.
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