from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Black book \Black" book`\ (bl[a^]k" b[oo^]k`).
1. One of several books of a political character, published
at different times and for different purposes; -- so
called either from the color of the binding, or from the
character of the contents.
[1913 Webster]
2. A book compiled in the twelfth century, containing a
description of the court of exchequer of England, an
official statement of the revenues of the crown, etc.
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3. A book containing details of the enormities practiced in
the English monasteries and religious houses, compiled by
order of their visitors under Henry VIII., to hasten their
dissolution.
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4. A book of admiralty law, of the highest authority,
compiled in the reign of Edw. III. --Bouvier. --Wharton.
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5. A book kept for the purpose of registering the names of
persons liable to censure or punishment, as in the English
universities, or the English armies.
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6. Any book which treats of necromancy.
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7. A book containing a {black list}.
[PJC]
8. A book kept by a single man, containing a list of women
whom he calls occasionally for a social date; -- usually
used in the phrase {little black book}. [jocose]
[PJC]