student asking question

I saw many vessels have their names after the SS (like "SS Venture" in the Jurassic Park series). But, I don't think the SS in the context doesn't refer to a ship. In this case, what does SS mean?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Here, "SS" stands for the German word "Schutzstaffel," which translates to "Protection Squadron." The SS in Nazi Germany was a paramilitary organization under Adolf Hitler. "Paramilitary" means an unofficial force organized similarly to the military. Ex: The SS grew very powerful during Nazi Germany. Ex: SS men were taught racist hate and ideas. It was declared a criminal organization in 1946.

Popular Q&As

01/11

Complete the expression with a quiz!