What does blackballing mean?
Blackballing refers to the act of rejecting or excluding someone, most famously through a voting method once used by private clubs and societies. In the traditional procedure, members voted anonymously on a candidate by placing either a white ball (approval) or a black ball (rejection) into a container; if enough black balls appeared, the candidate was denied membership. The term derives directly from this practice, combining 'black' and 'ball'. Over time, blackballing has broadened beyond its literal origins to describe any deliberate exclusion or ostracism, whether in social circles, professional settings, or organizations. It carries a connotation of secretive, collective decision-making and often implies unfair or behind-the-scenes maneuvering. The related verb 'to blackball' remains in use, particularly in British English and in historical accounts of gentleman's clubs. Understanding blackballing offers insight into both the history of club culture and the enduring language of social exclusion.
The act or practice of excluding someone, especially by voting against their admission using black balls, or more generally by ostracism.
"His blackballing from the society was carried out quietly and without explanation."
To vote against someone's admission, or to exclude or ostracize them.
"They threatened to blackball anyone who spoke out against the chairman."
Rarely used in plural form, as the concept typically functions as an uncountable noun describing a general practice.
"Historical records mention several blackballings during the club's early years."
In traditional club elections, a single black ball dropped into a box could silently end an applicant's chances — you were voted out without ever knowing who said no.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of blackballing
Blackballing derives from the compound 'blackball', formed in English from 'black' and 'ball', referring to the dark-colored balls used in anonymous voting to reject candidates. This voting practice dates back centuries in Europe, and the word itself has been in use since at least the 17th century. The root 'ball' traces back to Old Norse 'böllr' or Middle English 'bal', while the related word 'ballot' entered English via Italian 'ballotta', a diminutive of 'balla' (ball), reflecting the same tradition of using small balls for voting.
Related word forms
How blackballing is actually used
Often used figuratively in modern contexts to describe professional or social exclusion; retains slightly formal or historical flavor when referring literally to club voting procedures.
Easily confused with blackballing
Blacklisting is compiling a list of people to be avoided or banned, whereas blackballing originally referred specifically to a negative vote cast with a black ball to block someone's admission.