Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
blackmail
noun / verb
/ˈblakˌmāl/
Definition
The act of demanding money or another benefit from someone by threatening to reveal incriminating information about them.
Examples
- The criminal was arrested for attempting to blackmail the businessman.
- She received a blackmail letter demanding money to keep her past hidden.
- They threatened to blackmail him if he did not comply with their demands.
Meaning
Blackmail involves coercing someone into giving up money or favors by using threats, typically related to secrets or embarrassing information.
Synonyms
- extortion
- coercion
- threatening
- intimidation
