black·leg (bl k l g )n. 1. An infectious, usually fatal bacterial disease of cattle and sometimes of sheep, goats, and swine, caused by Clostridium chauvoe and characterized by gas-containing swellings in the musculature. 2. A bacterial or fungal disease of certain plants, such as the cabbage and potato, that causes the stems to turn black at the soil line. 3. One who cheats at cards; a cardsharp. 4. Chiefly British A worker who is opposed to trade unions; a scab. |
blackleg [ˈblæklɛg]
n
1. Also called scab Brit
a. a person who acts against the interests of a trade union, as by continuing to work during a strike or taking over a striker's job
b. (as modifier) blackleg labour
2. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Veterinary Science) Also called black quarter an acute infectious disease of cattle, sheep, and pigs, characterized by gas-filled swellings, esp on the legs, caused by Clostridium bacteria
3. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Plant Pathology) Plant pathol
a. a fungal disease of cabbages and related plants caused by Phoma lingam, characterized by blackening and decay of the lower stems
b. a similar disease of potatoes, caused by bacteria
4. (Group Games / Gambling, except Cards) a person who cheats in gambling, esp at cards or in racing
vb -legs, -legging, -legged
Brit to act against the interests of a trade union, esp by refusing to join a strike
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | blackleg - someone who works (or provides workers) during a strike worker - a person who works at a specific occupation; "he is a good worker" |
| Verb | 1. | blackleg - take the place of work of someone on strike |
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