black book

noun

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

black book

noun

1. a book containing the names of people to be punished, blacklisted, etc
2. in someone's black books informal.
   out of favour with someone

Word History and Origins

Origin of black book¹

First recorded in 1470–80

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

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

Example Sentences

But each time I got a new backpack, briefcase or computer bag, I would carefully move the black book to a safe pocket, where its very presence gave me solace.

From Seattle Times

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

From Salon

When Smith and Mealamu approached Kahui on his first day, Smith - by now a senior player - handed him a black book.

From BBC

It goes back to the execution thing — you do your sketch in your little black book, and when you go out, you try your best to duplicate what you planned.

From Los Angeles Times

How Juventus plunged into a crisis: Wiretaps, a “black book” and exposed WhatsApp messages have left one of Europe’s greatest soccer clubs under siege.

From New York Times