1. a worker who continues to work during a strike or takes the job of a striking worker
Usage: chiefly British
2. a bacterial disease affecting cattle and sheep, causing swelling and lameness
Usage: veterinary

Examples

• The union members called him a blackleg for crossing the picket line.
• Several blacklegs were hired to replace the striking workers.
• The factory continued operating with blackleg labor during the dispute.
• The farmer vaccinated his cattle against blackleg disease.
• Blackleg can cause sudden death in young cattle if left untreated.
• The veterinarian diagnosed the sheep with blackleg after examining the swollen leg.