Enter a clue or pattern or both:
The Clue
Black mark (7 letter answer)
The Answer
DEMERIT
Tags
Notes
The answer DEMERIT is seen occasionally, appearing about once every 850 puzzles.
Related Clues
Culpability
Fault
Imperfection
Mark for misconduct
Point out?
Punitive mark
Bad-conduct mark
Black mark at school
Mark against a student
Mark for poor work
Class clown's "reward," often
Point off, as for bad behavior
Definition
DEMERIT as a noun:
1. a mark against a person for misconduct or failure; usually given in school or armed forces; "ten demerits and he loses his privileges"
2. (demerit, fault) = the quality of being inadequate or falling short of perfection; "they discussed the merits and demerits of her novel"; "he knew his own faults much better than she did"