Definition

A person who uses threats of a hostile takeover to force a company to buy back their shares at a premium price.

Example

The greenmailer pressured the company into buying back its shares to avoid a takeover.

Conversation

Did you hear about that greenmailer who tried to blackmail the company?

Yeah, it's crazy how some people operate like that.

I can't believe they thought they could get away with it.

Right? It's such a risky move for a quick buck.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Greenmailer is formed from "green" (from Old English "grene", meaning the color of growing plants) and "mailer" (from Old French "mail", meaning a person who sends). The term refers to someone who uses the threat of a hostile takeover to extort money from a company, often implying a connection to environmental or green issues.

Memory Tip

Think of 'green' as relating to growth and nature, and 'mailer' as someone who sends something. This helps you remember that a greenmailer is someone who sends threats related to financial extortion, often with a focus on environmental concerns.

Visually Confused Words