Black Book

Meanings

1. Any of several books or documents of a political character, published at different times and for different purposes.
2. A book compiled in the 12th century, containing a description of the court of exchequer of England, an official statement of the revenues of the crown, etc.
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.
4. A book of admiralty law, of the highest authority, compiled in the reign of Edward III.
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.
6. A 19th century book detailing the corruption and financial abuses of the British government.
7. A book kept in the football with the United States President describing nuclear retaliation options.
8. A book critiquing or denouncing something.
9. Any book dealing with necromancy.

1. Alternative letter-case form of Black Book.
2. Synonym of little black book.

Etymology

Either from the colour of the binding, or from the character of the contents.