What does it mean to be blacklisted Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈblækˌlɪstɪd/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To be added to a list of entities or individuals who are banned, boycotted, or excluded from participating in a particular activity, organization, or community, often due to inappropriate behavior or violations of rules and regulations.

Examples

• The company was blacklisted by the government for fraudulent activities.
• After the scandal, the celebrity was blacklisted from attending future award ceremonies.

Synonyms

• Banned
• Blocked
• Excluded

Antonyms

• Approved
• Allowed
• Included

Additional Information

Being blacklisted can have severe consequences, such as financial losses, damage to reputation, and social ostracism. Blacklisting is often used as a means to maintain accountability and ensure compliance with rules and regulations. The term has been extended to include other forms of exclusion, such as being blocked on social media or being denied access to certain services.

In some cases, blacklisting can be a form of punishment or discipline, aiming to correct unwanted behavior. However, it can also be misused as a means to suppress dissenting voices or individual freedom.

Etymology

The term “blacklist” originated in the mid-17th century, derived from the Old English words “blæc” meaning “black” and “līst” meaning “list”. Initially, it referred to a list of persons or things considered undesirable or unacceptable.

Usage Notes

Be careful when using the term “blacklisted” as it can have strong connotations and implications. In formal contexts, it’s essential to use the term accurately and responsibly.

Cultural References

• In the movie “The Blacklist”, a high-profile criminal surrenders to the FBI and offers to give up information about his associates in exchange for immunity.
• In the TV show “Person of Interest”, the main character is a former CIA agent who is blacklisted and forced to go into hiding.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “To be on someone’s blacklist” means to be considered an enemy or an undesirable person by someone.

Related Words or Phrases

• Whitelist
• Watchlist
• Banned list

Collocations

• Be blacklisted by
• Get blacklisted
• Put on the blacklist

Frequency of Use

The term “blacklisted” is moderately frequent in modern language, often used in formal and informal contexts.

Common Misspellings

• Blacklisted -> Black list
• Blacklist -> Blakelist