blackmail

black-mail · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The action of demanding money or another benefit from someone by threatening to reveal compromising or damaging information.

  2. 2.

    To demand money or benefits from someone by threatening to reveal compromising information.

  3. 3.

    [figurative]Using pressure or threats to force someone to do something.

Related words

See also: blackmailed, blackmailing, extortion, threat
Synonyms: coercion, extortion, intimidation

Etymology

From Scottish black + mail (an old word for "rent" or "tribute"). Originally referred to protection money extorted by Scottish chiefs.