Definition

A person who threatens to reveal secret information about someone unless they receive money or something of value.

Example

The police arrested the blackmailer after he demanded money from the victim.

Conversation

Did you hear about that blackmailer who was caught last week?

Yeah, it was all over the news!

I can't believe people actually resort to being a blackmailer for money.

It's crazy! I wonder how they think they can get away with it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Blackmailer → It is formed from "black" (from Old English "blæc", meaning dark or without light) and "mailer" (from the verb "to mail", meaning to send a letter or message, derived from Old French "mailler", meaning to send). The term "blackmailer" refers to someone who sends threatening messages to extort money or favors, often using the threat of revealing damaging information.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who sends dark or threatening messages ('black') to extort money or favors ('mailer'). This helps you remember that a blackmailer is someone who uses threats to get what they want.

Visually Confused Words