Gestapo Meaning in English
word
Definition
The Gestapo was the official secret police of Nazi Germany, known for using terror and violence to control people. The term can also be used informally to describe any group or authority that acts in a harsh, oppressive, or overly controlling way.
Usage & Nuances
'Gestapo' is capitalized when referring to the historical Nazi police, and lowercase in figurative uses. In modern speech, calling someone or something 'Gestapo' is very strong and negative, suggesting cruelty or extreme control; use with caution, as it evokes connections to Nazi atrocities.
Example Sentences
The Gestapo arrested many people during World War II.
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He read a book about the history of the Gestapo.
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The Gestapo was feared by everyone in Germany.
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Don't act like the Gestapo—give people some freedom!
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My old boss used to run the office like the Gestapo—nobody could relax.
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The students called the strict hall monitor the Gestapo behind her back.
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