Why do words like blackmail start with the prefix

The word "blackmail" doesn't technically have a prefix in the way you might be thinking. It's a compound word, meaning it's formed from two separate words:

* Black: Originally referring to the color, but in this context, it's likely related to the "blackening" of someone's reputation (think of being "blackmailed").

* Mail: In this context, it refers to "rent" or "payment," specifically a type of feudal payment in the past.

So, "blackmail" literally meant "black rent" or "payment to protect one's reputation." While "black" can be seen as a prefix-like element, it's integral to the word's meaning, not just a prefix attached to an existing word.

It's important to remember that language evolves, and word origins sometimes get more complex over time.