BLACK Meaning and
Definition
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Black is an adjective used to describe the darkest color in the visible spectrum, characterized by the absence or complete absorption of light. It is often associated with the absence of color or lightness, and is commonly perceived as the opposite of white.
In terms of color, black is the absence of hue and is often used to represent darkness, mystery, and the unknown. It is regarded as a neutral color and can convey a range of emotions, from elegance and formality to power and authority. In fashion, black is often considered a classic and versatile color, frequently utilized for formal attire or as a symbol of sophistication.
The term "black" can also refer to a person or race who has dark brown or black skin, particularly individuals of African descent. This usage is rooted in historical racial classifications and can be associated with cultural, social, and political contexts.
Beyond color and race, "black" has additional connotations in various domains. In science, it may describe objects or substances that absorb all or nearly all wavelengths of light, such as black holes or black ink. In technology, it may refer to electronic devices with darkened screens or displays, commonly utilized for visual contrast or power-saving purposes.
In conclusion, "black" encompasses a broad range of meanings and interpretations, spanning from colors and aesthetics to cultural and sociological contexts. Its significance varies across different disciplines and contexts, making it a versatile and multifaceted term.
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Without color, reflecting no light, the opposite of white.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• The opposite of white; dark; cloudy; dismal; sullen; very wicked.
• Name of the darkest of colours; a negro.
• To make black; to dirty or soil.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for BLACK *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for BLACK
Etymology of BLACK
The word "black" can be traced back to multiple etymological origins, depending on the context and language in question:
1. Old English: In Old English, the word "black" was spelled as "blæc". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "blakaz".
2. Proto-Germanic: The Proto-Germanic word "blakaz" gave rise to various words related to "black" in different Germanic languages, such as Old High German "blach" and Old Norse "blakkr".
3. Proto-Indo-European: The Proto-Germanic word "blakaz" itself likely had its roots in the Proto-Indo-European (PIE) word "bhleg", meaning "to burn" or "to shine".
Idioms with the word BLACK
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in the black
The idiom "in the black" refers to a financial situation where a person or organization has a profitable and positive balance, meaning that they have more assets or income than liabilities or expenses. It comes from the practice of recording profits in black ink in financial statements, while losses are recorded in red.
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black out
The idiom "black out" has several meanings depending on the context, but generally, it refers to the loss of consciousness or memory for a period of time. It can also mean the loss of electricity or the deliberate blocking of information.
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the new black
The idiom "the new black" refers to something that has become, or is becoming, incredibly popular, trendy, or fashionable. It suggests that the particular thing or concept is currently in vogue and has gained widespread acceptance or popularity among a certain group of people or society in general. It can be used to describe a variety of things, such as a color, a style, a trend, or a preference.
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black eye
The idiom "black eye" refers to a physical injury where the area around the eye becomes swollen and discolored, typically turning black or blue. However, metaphorically, it can also mean a mark of shame, humiliation, or discredit caused by a particular event or behavior.
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black sth out
The idiom "black something out" refers to the act of intentionally preventing or restricting access to information, memories, or certain parts of a story/event. It can also mean to cover or obscure something, usually by using black ink or paint, in order to make it illegible or invisible.
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into the black
The idiom "into the black" refers to a financial situation where a company, individual, or project moves from a state of debt or loss into a profitable or financially stable position. It indicates a turnaround or improvement in financial position.
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black book
The idiom "black book" typically refers to a private collection or record of individuals who are considered undesirable, dishonest, or untrustworthy. It can also refer to a list of people who have been wronged or are to be targeted for revenge.
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black box
The idiom "black box" refers to a system, device, or process that is complex or mysterious in nature, where the internal workings are not fully understood or accessible to the user. It implies that the focus is on the output or results rather than how it functions internally.
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Black Friday
The idiom "Black Friday" refers to the day following Thanksgiving Day in the United States, often regarded as the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. It is characterized by significant discounts and sales offered by retailers, leading to large crowds of shoppers and heavy traffic. The term "black" is believed to signify the transition of retailers' financial records from being in the red (indicating losses) to being in the black (indicating profits).
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black gold
The idiom "black gold" refers to petroleum or crude oil. It is usually used to emphasize the economic importance and value of oil, particularly due to its role in fueling energy production and its high market demand.
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black hat
The idiom "black hat" refers to a person who engages in malicious, unethical, or illegal activities, particularly in the context of technology and cybersecurity. It originally derived from the representation of villains wearing black hats in Western movies, symbolizing their nefarious intentions and opposition to the virtuous "white hats" or heroes. In the cybersecurity world, "black hat" typically describes cybercriminals, hackers, or individuals who exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain, damage, or illegal activities rather than using their skills for legitimate purposes or ethical hacking.
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black list
The idiom "black list" refers to a list of people, organizations, or entities who are prohibited or disapproved of, typically due to their perceived wrongdoing, undesirable actions, or a decision to exclude or prevent them from participating in certain activities, events, or opportunities.
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black look
The idiom "black look" refers to a facial expression or gaze characterized by anger, disapproval, or hostility. It is typically used to describe a person's intense and menacing expression, often communicated through narrowed eyes or a frown, which signals their negative emotions or displeasure towards someone or something.
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black magic
The idiom "black magic" refers to practices or actions that are considered evil, malevolent, or supernatural, often involving the use of supernatural powers or forces for personal gain or harm to others. It can also imply deceit, manipulation, or the exploitation of dark arts or occult practices. The term is commonly used metaphorically to describe any mysterious, secretive, or unethical activities.
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Black Maria
The idiom "Black Maria" refers to a slang term used to describe a police vehicle, typically a van or wagon, used to transport prisoners or suspects to jail or a police station. The term originated in the late 19th or early 20th century, and it is believed to have been derived from the popularization of the name "Maria" for police wagons in London during that time. The "Black" in the idiom refers to the color of the vehicle, which was often painted black or dark in order to make it less conspicuous during nighttime operations.
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black mark
The idiom "black mark" typically refers to a negative or damaging mark or stain on someone's reputation or record. It represents a mark of disapproval, criticism, or a flaw that may have long-lasting consequences.
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black on black
The idiom "black on black" typically refers to an aesthetic or design in which various elements or objects are predominantly or entirely black in color. It often signifies a sleek, modern, and stylish appearance.
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black sheep
The idiom "black sheep" refers to a person who is considered different, troublesome, or an outsider within a group or family. It is often used to describe someone who is perceived as not conforming to the norms or values of the social or familial environment.
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black stump
The idiom "black stump" is an Australian expression used to refer to a fictional or metaphorical point of no return or the limits of civilization. It originated from the practice of burning blackened tree stumps or logs to serve as landmarks in the vast, undeveloped Australian outback. The term "beyond the black stump" signifies a remote or inaccessible location, often used to describe a place that is far away from established towns or known areas. It can also be used figuratively to imply a situation, idea, or concept that is unconventional or outside the accepted norms.
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black tie
The idiom "black tie" refers to a dress code for formal events that typically require men to wear a tuxedo or a black tie attire, and women to wear an evening gown or formal dress.
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look black
The idiom "look black" means to appear threatening, gloomy, or unpromising. It is often used to describe a situation that appears to have negative or unfavorable outcomes.
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paint black
The idiom "paint black" means to portray something in a negative light or make it seem worse than it actually is, often by exaggerating or highlighting the negative aspects.
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paint the black
The idiom "paint the black" typically refers to a term used in the sport of baseball, specifically in reference to pitching. The phrase means to throw a pitch so accurately and precisely that the ball crosses the edge of the home plate, often painted black, and is called a strike by the umpire. It implies skilled and precise pitching, hitting the target with great accuracy. This idiom is often used metaphorically to describe any situation where someone successfully achieves a desired outcome with great precision, accuracy, or skill.
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the black dog
The idiom "the black dog" is often used to refer to a state of depression or melancholy. It originated from the description of a black dog as a symbol for a gloomy or despondent mood. Just as a black dog can represent a presence that lingers and affects one's emotional well-being, "the black dog" idiomatically symbolizes the same feeling of sadness or depression that seems to persistently shadow someone.
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this side of the black stump
The idiom "this side of the black stump" typically means a distance or place that is far away, isolated, or remote from civilization. It originated in Australian English and refers to the hypothetical black stump, which was often used as a visual reference to represent the limit or boundary of settled or developed areas. Thus, the phrase suggests being on the more accessible or civilized side, as opposed to being in a remote or desolate location.
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put down in black and white
The idiom "put down in black and white" means to write something down clearly and explicitly, often in the form of a written document, in order to make it official or unequivocal. It refers to the practice of using black ink on white paper for writing or printing, which provides a clear and unambiguous representation of information.
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get something down (in black and white)
The idiom "get something down (in black and white)" means to have a written and official record or confirmation of something, typically in the form of a document. It implies the need to have something formally documented in order to make it legally valid or to ensure clear communication and agreement between parties involved.
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(as) black as a raven's wing
The idiom "(as) black as a raven's wing" is used to describe something that is extremely dark or black in color. It implies a deep shade of black, resembling the color of a raven's wing. It is often used to emphasize the darkness or blackness of something.
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the black ox has trod upon (one's) foot
The idiom "the black ox has trod upon (one's) foot" is typically used to describe a situation where someone has experienced misfortune or adversity. It implies that someone has encountered a difficult and challenging situation that has caused pain or distress, similar to the feeling of a heavy ox stepping on one's foot.
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paint a black picture (of someone or something)
The idiom "paint a black picture (of someone or something)" means to describe someone or something in a negative or unfavorable way, often exaggerating their faults or emphasizing the negative aspects. It refers to creating a bleak or pessimistic portrayal, often with the intention of influencing others to hold a negative opinion or view.
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the devil is not so black as he is painted
The idiom "the devil is not so black as he is painted" means that someone or something may not be as evil or bad as they appear initially. It suggests that the true nature or character of a person or situation might be more benign or favorable than what others perceive or portray.
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black hole
The idiom "black hole" refers to a situation, place, or person that absorbs or consumes everything without letting anything escape, often resulting in the loss or disappearance of resources, time, or energy.
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(as) black as the minister's coat
The idiom "(as) black as the minister's coat" means extremely black or dark in color. It suggests that something is as dark as the black coat typically worn by ministers or religious clergy, emphasizing a deep, rich shade of black.
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a black mark
The idiom "a black mark" typically refers to something that tarnishes a person's reputation or record. It symbolizes a negative or unfavorable event, action, or consequence that will have a lasting impact on someone's standing or public perception.
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be in the black
The idiom "be in the black" means to have a positive financial status, indicating that an individual, organization, or business is making a profit or has a surplus of funds. It is often used to describe a situation when the income exceeds the expenses, resulting in a favorable financial position.
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a black box
The idiom "a black box" refers to a system, device, or process that is extremely complex or mysterious, and its internal workings are not easily understood or accessible. It usually implies that the inner workings of the system are unknown or hidden from the user, focusing more on the observable output or results.
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black and blue
The definition of the idiom "black and blue" refers to physical bruising or injury caused by being hit or beaten repeatedly. It can also be used metaphorically to describe feeling mentally or emotionally bruised after enduring intense criticism, rejection, or mistreatment.
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a black day
The idiom "a black day" refers to a day that is marked by tragedy, disaster, or sorrow. It implies a day filled with unfortunate events or a situation that is grim and bleak.
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(beat somebody) black and blue
The idiom "(beat somebody) black and blue" means to excessively and severely beat or bruise someone, causing visible marks or injuries in various shades of black and blue on their body.
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devil is not so black as he is painted
The idiom "devil is not so black as he is painted" means that a person or thing may not be as bad or evil as they are described or believed to be. It suggests that judgments or opinions about someone or something should not be solely based on reputation or hearsay. Just because someone is depicted negatively or portrayed as a villain, it does not necessarily mean that they are entirely wicked or without any redeeming qualities.
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swear black is white
The idiom "swear black is white" is used to describe someone who stubbornly insists on believing or asserting something that is clearly untrue or contradicts the evidence. It implies that the person is deliberately denying the obvious or is dishonestly arguing against reality.
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pot is calling the kettle black
The idiom "the pot calling the kettle black" refers to a situation where someone accuses another person of a fault or wrongdoing that they themselves are guilty of. It implies hypocrisy, where the accuser is pointing out a flaw in someone else while ignoring or being unaware of their own similar flaw.
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pitch black
The idiom "pitch black" means a state or condition of complete darkness, with no visibility or light whatsoever.
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a black eye
The idiom "a black eye" refers to a physical injury where bruising and discoloration occurs around the eye due to trauma or a blow to the face. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a negative or damaging event or situation that harms or tarnishes someone's reputation or image.
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not as black as he/she/it is painted
The idiom "not as black as he/she/it is painted" means that someone or something is not as bad or evil as they are described or perceived to be. It suggests that the negative portrayal or reputation is exaggerated or unjustified.
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black hat (or white hat)
The idiom "black hat (or white hat)" typically refers to two different approaches or roles adopted in various fields, especially in computer science and hacking.
1. Black Hat: In the context of computer security, a black hat is a person who engages in unauthorized and malicious activities such as hacking, cracking, or exploiting vulnerabilities for personal gain or harm. Black hat hackers focus on illegal activities, breaching security systems, stealing data, or causing disruptions.
2. White Hat: Conversely, a white hat refers to individuals who engage in ethical hacking, penetration testing, or security consulting with the purpose of identifying vulnerabilities and helping organizations protect their systems. White hat hackers follow legal and ethical norms, working to enhance security and prevent unauthorized access or data breaches
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not be as black as you are/it is painted
The idiom "not be as black as you are/it is painted" means that something or someone is not as bad or negative as it seems or as others claim it to be. It implies that there may be a more favorable or less negative perspective that hasn't been considered.
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not as black as (one) is painted
The idiom "not as black as (one) is painted" means that someone or something is not as bad or evil as they are portrayed or believed to be. It suggests that the negative reputation or impression someone has is exaggerated or inaccurate.
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the black sheep (of the family)
The idiom "the black sheep (of the family)" refers to a family member who is considered wayward, different, or disreputable compared to the rest of the family. The "black sheep" often stands out due to their unconventional behavior, lifestyle choices, or values, which are in contrast to the generally accepted norms or expectations of the family.
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see things in black and white
The idiom "see things in black and white" means to view situations as strictly and simplistically as possible, without considering any gray areas or nuances. It refers to a person's tendency to perceive things in overly simplistic terms, categorizing them as completely right or wrong, good or bad, with no room for ambiguity or complex interpretation.
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pretend/say that black is white
The idiom "pretend/say that black is white" means to assert or claim something that is completely contrary to the truth or reality. It refers to making an intentionally false statement or denying an obvious fact or situation. It implies someone trying to deceive or mislead others by presenting a falsehood as the truth.
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the pot calling the kettle black
The idiom "the pot calling the kettle black" is used to describe a situation in which someone criticizes or accuses another person of a fault or wrongdoing that they themselves are guilty of. It implies hypocrisy, as the person making the accusation is just as guilty of the same thing.
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black and white
The idiom "black and white" typically refers to something that is clearly and distinctly defined, with no ambiguity or room for interpretation. It often implies a stark contrast between two opposing viewpoints, choices, or situations.
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be (not) as black as (someone or something) is painted
The idiom "be (not) as black as (someone or something) is painted" means that a person or thing is (not) as bad or evil as they are portrayed or believed to be. It implies that the negative reputation or perception may be exaggerated or unfair.
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(as) black as (one's) hat
The idiom "(as) black as (one's) hat" refers to describing something or someone as extremely black or dark in color. It can also be used figuratively to describe the negative traits or intentions of a person, character, or situation.
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the black ox has trod upon (one's) toe
The idiom "the black ox has trod upon (one's) toe" typically refers to a situation where someone has experienced misfortune or faced a challenging situation. It implies that someone's luck has taken a turn for the worse, often resulting in personal suffering or hardship.
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a/the black sheep
The idiom "a/the black sheep" refers to a person who is considered different or distinct from the rest of their family or social group due to their behavior, views, or characteristics. They often stand out as the odd one out or the one who deviates from the norms or expectations of the group. The term "black sheep" originated from the idea that black sheep within a flock were seen as undesirable due to the color of their wool, which stood out from the rest.
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black as night
The idiom "black as night" is used to describe something extremely dark, devoid of light, and completely lacking brightness or color.
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(as) black as the ace of spades
The idiom "(as) black as the ace of spades" is used to describe something that is extremely dark or black in color. The phrase derives its meaning from the common association of the card ace of spades as one of the darkest and blackest cards in a deck. It is often used metaphorically to indicate something that is completely devoid of light or brightness.
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back of the black stump
The idiom "back of the black stump" is an Australian expression used to describe a faraway or remote location, generally referring to a place that is isolated, rural, and away from civilization. It symbolizes a place that is distant, often used to illustrate a sense of remoteness or being disconnected from the rest of the world.
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brown, green, etc. is the new black
The idiom "brown, green, etc. is the new black" is a figure of speech that suggests a particular color or trend has become as popular, fashionable, or versatile as black. It implies that the color being mentioned has become the latest or current trendsetter, just like black has traditionally been associated with being timeless, elegant, or fashionable.
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as clear as black and white
The idiom "as clear as black and white" means that something is very clear, obvious, or easily understood. It denotes a situation or information that is straightforward, unambiguous, and without any room for interpretation or confusion. The contrasting colors of black and white often represent clarity and stark contrast, emphasizing the lack of ambiguity in the situation or information being referred to.
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say (that) black is white
The idiom "say (that) black is white" is used to describe someone who stubbornly denies or contradicts an obvious truth, often in a deliberate attempt to deceive or confuse others. It implies that the person is claiming something that is clearly untrue or implausible.
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(as) black as Newgate's knocker
The idiom "(as) black as Newgate's knocker" refers to something being extremely black or dirty. It is derived from the appearance of the knocker on the gate of Newgate Prison, a notorious prison in London. The knocker, often covered in soot and dirt, became synonymous with darkness and filth. Therefore, when describing something as black as Newgate's knocker, it means it is exceptionally dark or unclean.
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black something out
The idiom "black something out" typically means to obscure or conceal information or memory, often intentionally. It can refer to physically covering or censoring information, blocking out a memory or event, or rendering something unknown or unavailable.
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Black Lives Matter
The idiom "Black Lives Matter" is a social justice movement that originated in the United States. It represents the idea that black lives are valuable and should be recognized and treated with equal dignity and respect as lives of other races or ethnicities. It addresses systemic racism and advocates for changes in policies, institutions, and attitudes that perpetuate violence, discrimination, or inequality against black people. This idiom emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the experiences and struggles faced by the black community and works toward creating a more equitable and just society.
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black as pitch
The idiom "black as pitch" means something or someone that is extremely dark or completely lacking in light. It originates from pitch, a dark, thick, sticky substance such as tar used in various applications, which is often associated with darkness.
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paint a black picture of sth/sb
To "paint a black picture of something/someone" means to describe it or them in a negative or pessimistic way. It refers to presenting a situation or person in a highly unfavorable or bleak manner, emphasizing the negative aspects and ignoring any positive elements. This idiom is often used when someone over-exaggerates the negative qualities or outcomes to create a gloomy perception.
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black as one is painted
The idiom "black as one is painted" refers to someone's reputation or character being portrayed in a negative or unfavorable manner. It implies that the person is commonly perceived as being dishonest, malicious, or wicked.
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the black sheep
The idiom "the black sheep" refers to a person who is considered the odd one out or the one who stands apart from their family or social group due to their negative behavior, different values, or unconventional lifestyle choices. They are often seen as the one who brings disgrace or embarrassment to the family or group.
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a black look
The idiom "a black look" is used to describe a facial expression or demeanor that indicates anger, disapproval, or dissatisfaction. It refers to a person's dark or gloomy expression, often associated with a frown or a stern and intense gaze.
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black triangle
The idiom "black triangle" typically refers to a symbol used to represent disabled individuals, often seen as an inverted equilateral triangle in black color. The term originated from Nazi Germany where it was used to identify certain groups of people, such as disabled and mentally ill individuals, who were considered social outcasts and subjected to persecution. In modern times, the black triangle has been adopted by some disability rights movements as a symbol of pride and solidarity, representing strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
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a black mark against someone
The idiom "a black mark against someone" refers to a negative assessment or criticism that reflects poorly on a person's reputation or record of behavior. It signifies a fault, mistake, or transgression that can have lasting consequences for the individual's standing or perception in a particular context or community.
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give someone a black eye
The idiom "give someone a black eye" means to discredit or tarnish someone's reputation, often by exposing their wrongdoings or revealing damaging information about them. It can also refer to physically injuring someone by causing a visible bruise or swelling around their eye.
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in (someone's) black books
The idiom "in someone's black books" refers to a person being in disfavor or falling out of favor with someone else. It means that the person is disliked, considered to be unfriendly, or has done something to cause the other person's displeasure or disapproval. It implies that the person is currently being closely watched or monitored, and any negative actions or behavior will further deepen the disfavor.
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give (someone or something) a black eye
The idiom "give (someone or something) a black eye" means to tarnish or damage the reputation or image of someone or something. It implies causing harm or humiliation to someone or something that leads to a loss of credibility or respect.
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be (not) as black as (someone/something) is painted
The idiom "be (not) as black as (someone/something) is painted" means that someone or something is not as bad or evil as they are made out to be. It suggests that the negative reputation or portrayal of a person or thing may be exaggerated or inaccurate.
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black sheep of the family
The idiom "black sheep of the family" refers to a person who is considered odd, unconventional, or different from the rest of their family. They may have different opinions, behavior, or values that do not align with those of their relatives, making them stand out or be perceived as the outcast within the family unit.
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in black and white
The idiom "in black and white" means to have something clearly and explicitly written or printed, typically in the form of a document or written record. It signifies that the information or evidence is unambiguous, objective, and not open to interpretation or dispute.
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black mark beside name
The idiom "black mark beside name" refers to a negative reputation or stigma attached to someone's name due to their past actions or unfavorable behavior. It suggests that the person's credibility or trustworthiness has been diminished, often making it difficult to regain others' faith or trust.
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black rider
The idiom "black rider" typically refers to a daunting or ominous figure that symbolizes something threatening or impending danger. It often signifies an impending disaster, misfortune, or a grim fate that one cannot escape or avoid. It derives its imagery from the image of a dark, mysterious rider on a black horse, representing a foreboding presence or a harbinger of doom.
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give a black eye to (someone or something)
The idiomatic expression "give a black eye to (someone or something)" means to harm someone's reputation or credibility, usually through criticism, negative remarks, or exposing their flaws or mistakes. It can also refer to detrimental actions or incidents that damage the reputation or standing of a person, organization, or idea.
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(as) black as a skillet
The idiom "(as) black as a skillet" refers to something that is extremely dark or black in color. It is typically used to describe an object or surface that lacks any light or brightness. The comparison is made to a black skillet or frying pan that is often used for cooking and can become dark and discolored due to the heat and cooking processes.
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(as) black as (one) is painted
The expression "(as) black as (one) is painted" is an idiom used to describe someone who is portrayed or perceived in a highly negative or unflattering light. It suggests that the individual is unfairly depicted as a villain or has a reputation for being dishonest, deceitful, or malicious.
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(as) black as thunder
The idiom "(as) black as thunder" is used to describe something or someone that appears very angry, intense, dark, or foreboding. It suggests a strong emotional state or a threatening atmosphere.
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a black mark against (one)
The idiom "a black mark against (one)" refers to a negative mark or stain on someone's reputation or record, typically due to a mistake, wrongdoing, or failure. It symbolizes a blemish that tarnishes the person's standing or credibility.
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(as) black as ink
The idiom "(as) black as ink" is used to describe something that is extremely dark or devoid of light. It refers to the color of ink, which is typically a deep, intense shade of black.
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not be as black as you are painted
The idiom "not be as black as you are painted" means that someone's reputation or actions may not be as negative or severe as they are portrayed or believed to be. It suggests that the person in question is not entirely guilty or to the extent of their alleged wrongdoing. It emphasizes the idea of being unfairly judged or described in a more negative light than is warranted.
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black out sth
The idiom "black out something" refers to the act of obscuring, hiding, or concealing something intentionally. It means to prevent information or details from being revealed or made public. It can be used in various contexts, such as censorship, redaction, or deliberately removing content.
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be (down) in black and white
To have something "in black and white" means to have it in writing or in a documented form, typically in the form of official records, contracts, or written agreements. It implies that the information or evidence is clear, definite, and legally binding. It often suggests that there is no room for interpretation or dispute as the matter is documented and can be easily referenced.
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little black book
The idiom "little black book" refers to a metaphorical book or list that contains the contact information, particularly romantic or personal relationships, of various individuals. It is often associated with someone who keeps secret or private information about their romantic interests or potential partners.
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(as) black as the devil
The idiom "(as) black as the devil" is used to describe something that is extremely dark or completely devoid of light. It often refers to the darkness of the night, pitch-black darkness, or the color black itself. The phrase emphasizes a level of darkness that is intense, making a direct comparison to the perceived evil or malevolent nature associated with the concept of the devil.
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Black Russian
The idiom "Black Russian" refers to a cocktail made with vodka and coffee liqueur, typically topped with a cherry or orange twist.
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pretend that black is white
The idiom "pretend that black is white" means to intentionally distort or deny the truth or reality, often in an attempt to deceive or mislead others. It refers to the act of denying something obvious or reversing the truth, as if insisting that the complete opposite is true.
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(as) black as a raven
The idiom "(as) black as a raven" refers to something or someone that is completely black or very dark in color. Like a raven, which is known for its black feathers, this idiom is used to describe the intense darkness and lack of any other color.
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put sth down in black and white
The idiom "put something down in black and white" means to express or document something clearly and without any ambiguity in writing. It refers to the act of putting information or details in a written form that is easy to understand and cannot be easily misconstrued.
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he, it, etc. is not as black as he, it, etc. is painted
The idiom "he, it, etc. is not as black as he, it, etc. is painted" means that someone or something is not as bad or negative as they are portrayed or perceived to be. It suggests that the person or thing in question has some positive qualities or aspects that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
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the black market
The idiom "the black market" refers to an illegal or underground system of trade, in which goods or services are bought, sold, or exchanged through unofficial channels. It typically involves goods that are prohibited, regulated, or heavily taxed by the government, and it operates outside the boundaries of legal commerce and taxation. Transactions within the black market are often conducted secretly and carry the risk of legal repercussions.
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a black mark beside (one's) name
The idiom "a black mark beside (one's) name" refers to an unfavorable or negative notation or reputation associated with an individual. It suggests that the person has done something objectionable, leading to a tarnished reputation or being seen in a negative light.
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beyond the black stump
The idiom "beyond the black stump" is an Australian English expression that refers to a remote or inaccessible place, often beyond civilization or established settlements. It can also imply being isolated or disconnected from the rest of the world. The term "black stump" originally referred to a burnt tree stump used as a marker for determining land boundaries in the Australian outback. Therefore, "beyond the black stump" symbolizes a place that is far away, difficult to reach, or lacking in modern amenities.
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not as black as you are painted
The idiom "not as black as you are painted" means that someone's reputation or character is not as bad as it is portrayed or perceived to be. It suggests that the person's true nature or actions may be more positive or redeeming than the negative image that has been associated with them.
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(as) black as a raven's feather
The idiom "(as) black as a raven's feather" refers to something or someone that is very dark or completely black in color, often used as a metaphor to emphasize the depth and intensity of blackness. It implies a complete absence of light or any other shades of color.
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be in someone's black books
To be in someone's black books means to be in disfavor or to have fallen out of favor with someone. It refers to being on someone's list of people they are angry or upset with.
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a black spot
The idiom "a black spot" refers to something or someone that is considered a negative or unpleasant aspect, a stain, or a source of trouble or danger. It is often used to describe a problematic issue or a bad mark on someone's reputation.
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black as a skillet
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black gum
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black-collar workers
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early black
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*black mark beside one's name
The idiom "black mark beside one's name" refers to a negative mark or stain on someone's reputation or character that may have resulted from bad behavior or a mistake. It signifies that the person's credibility or trustworthiness may be called into question due to this blemish on their record.
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pot calling the kettle black, the
The idiom "pot calling the kettle black" refers to a situation where someone is accusing another person of a fault or wrongdoing that they themselves are guilty of. It suggests hypocrisy and lack of self-awareness.
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black-silk barge
There is no established definition for the idiom "black-silk barge." It is possible that this term may not have a commonly understood meaning or could be a localized or obscure phrase.
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once you go black, you never go back
The idiom "once you go black, you never go back" is a colloquial phrase used to suggest that once someone has tried something of a certain quality or type (often referring to a romantic or sexual partner of African descent), they will not be satisfied with anything else and will always prefer that specific thing.
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black babies
Similar spelling words for BLACK
- blakey,
- blick,
- bloc,
- blake,
- back,
- Blasko,
- block,
- slack,
- blank,
- bleak,
- blacker,
- blecha,
- balk,
- bulk,
- bleach,
- blocky,
- Blok,
- blacken,
- bloke,
- lack,
- bloch.
Conjugate verb Black
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have blacked
you
would have blacked
he/she/it
would have blacked
we
would have blacked
they
would have blacked
I
would have black
you
would have black
he/she/it
would have black
we
would have black
they
would have black
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been blacking
you
would have been blacking
he/she/it
would have been blacking
we
would have been blacking
they
would have been blacking
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would black
you
would black
he/she/it
would black
we
would black
they
would black
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be blacking
you
would be blacking
he/she/it
would be blacking
we
would be blacking
they
would be blacking
FUTURE
I
will black
you
will black
he/she/it
will black
we
will black
they
will black
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be blacking
you
will be blacking
he/she/it
will be blacking
we
will be blacking
they
will be blacking
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have blacked
you
will have blacked
he/she/it
will have blacked
we
will have blacked
they
will have blacked
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been blacking
you
will have been blacking
he/she/it
will have been blacking
we
will have been blacking
they
will have been blacking
IMPERATIVE
we
Let's black
you
black
we
let´s black
to black
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was blacking
you
were blacking
he/she/it
was blacking
we
were blacking
they
were blacking
PAST PARTICIPLE
blacked
PAST PERFECT
I
had blacked
you
had blacked
he/she/it
had blacked
we
had blacked
they
had blacked
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been blacking
you
had been blacking
he/she/it
had been blacking
we
had been blacking
they
had been blacking
PRESENT
I
black
you
black
he/she/it
blacks
we
black
they
black
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am blacking
you
are blacking
he/she/it
is blacking
we
are blacking
they
are blacking
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
blacking
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have blacked
you
have blacked
he/she/it
has blacked
we
have blacked
they
have blacked
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been blacking
you
have been blacking
he/she/it
has been blacking
we
have been blacking
they
have been blacking
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
black
SIMPLE PAST
I
blacked
you
blacked
he/she/it
blacked
we
blacked
they
blacked
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