vbl. sb. [f. prec. sb. (sense 2) but implying a vb.] The kidnapping of negroes or Polynesians for slavery. Also as ppl. adj.
1883. H. S. Fagan, in Academy, 8 Sept., 158/1. The Polynesian savage who slays Bishop Patteson by, way of reprisal for the atrocities of some ‘black-birding’ crew.
1884. Pall Mall Gaz., 19 Aug., 2/2. Years ago blackbirding scoundrels may have hailed from Fiji.
