Definition

A person who captures or recruits people, often for forced labor, especially in the context of the historical practice of blackbirding.

Example

The blackbirder was known for his ruthless methods of capturing workers from remote islands.

Conversation

Did you hear about the blackbirder that was in the news recently?

Yeah, it was shocking to learn about that kind of exploitation.

I can't believe people still engage in such practices as blackbirding.

It's a sad part of history that we need to remember and learn from.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Blackbirder is formed from "black" (from Old English "blæc", meaning dark or the color black) and "birder" (from the verb "to bird" which refers to capturing or taking birds). The term originally referred to those who illegally captured or recruited people, often for forced labor, likening the act to capturing birds.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'black' representing something dark or illegal, and 'birder' as someone who captures. This helps you remember that a blackbirder is someone who captures people, often in a nefarious way.

Visually Confused Words