black-market

1 of 2

verb

black-mar·​ket ˈblak-ˈmär-kət How to pronounce black-market (audio)
black-marketed; black-marketing; black-markets
Synonyms of black-marketnext

intransitive verb

: to buy or sell goods in the black market

transitive verb

: to sell in the black market
black marketer noun
or black marketeer
black marketeering noun

black market

2 of 2

noun

: illicit trade in goods or commodities in violation of official regulations
also : a place where such trade is carried on

Examples of black-market in a Sentence

Noun The black market in prescription drugs is thriving. They unloaded the stolen goods on the black market.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
Despite this, black-market Stingers have had a depressing tendency to surface in conflicts around the world. David Szondy february 08, New Atlas, 8 Feb. 2026 However, an expansion in black-market dealings led to a need for more space. Joe Rubin, Sacbee.com, 3 Feb. 2026
Noun
Prohibition undermines personal liberty, sends billions in potential revenue to other states, and sustains dangerous black markets instead of replacing them with a safe, regulated system. Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Feb. 2026 That sensible move would not only bolster consumer choice but also protect bettors from the dangers of black markets. Johnny Kampis, Oc Register, 6 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for black-market

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1727, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Noun

1931, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of black-market was in 1727

Browse Nearby Words

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Black-market.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black-market. Accessed 17 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

black market

noun
: trade that is against government controls (as of prices or rationing)
also : the place where such trade is carried on
black marketer
-ˈmär-kət-ər
noun
or black marketeer
-ˌmär-kə-ˈti(ə)r

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