black book

American  

noun

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

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idioms

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

black book British  

noun

1. a book containing the names of people to be punished, blacklisted, etc

2. informal out of favour with someone

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black book More Idioms  

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]

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Etymology

Origin of black book

First recorded in 1470–80

Example Sentences

The names of many New Yorkers who never met Epstein appear in the DOJ files—and many listed in his black book never knew him either.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

I’m holding the little black book in my hands now, in fact, its cover comically misshapen, the pages barely intact.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 3, 2023

And in this box, as you say, I came across this little black book, and it was tied with cream ribbon.

From Salon • Oct. 22, 2023

Liz Weager believes important evidence is provided by her mother's diary - a small black book embossed with the date 2020 and packed with bits of paper.

From BBC • Aug. 25, 2023

On the other side of it, a thin man with big ears was writing in a black book.

From "Walk Two Moons" by Sharon Creech