black book

SEE SYNONYMS FOR black book ON THESAURUS.COM

noun

a book of names of people liable to censure or punishment.

Idioms for black book

    in someone's black books, in disfavor with someone.

Origin of black book

First recorded in 1470–80

Words nearby black book

black bindweed, black birch, black blizzard, black bloc, black body, black book, black bottom, black bottom pie, black box, black boy, black bread

British Dictionary definitions for black book

black book

noun

a book containing the names of people to be punished, blacklisted, etc
in someone's black books informal out of favour with someone

Idioms and Phrases with black book

black book
1

A list of persons or things out of favor, as in Tom's in my black book these days. This usage dates from the 14th century and in time became more ominous. In 1536 the agents of King Henry VIII wrote in a black book the names of those to be censured or punished, specifically “sinful” English monasteries (whose lands Henry wanted to acquire). Today being in someone's black book still signifies being in trouble, at least with that person. Also see black list.

2

Also, little black book. A personal telephone directory listing girlfriends, or, less often, boyfriends. For example, Now that he's engaged to Ellen, Jim won't be needing his little black book. [1930s]

3

A list of measures or facts involved in the unfriendly takeover of one company by another. This usage is employed mainly in business and commerce. [c. 1980]