English edit

 
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Etymology edit

Borrowed from German Waffen-SS, from Waffe (weapon) + SS.

Pronunciation edit

  • IPA(key): /ˈvɑfən.ɛsˌɛs/

Proper noun edit

Waffen-SS

  1. A subdivision of the Schutzstaffel.
    Coordinate terms: Allgemeine SS, SS-Verfügungstruppe, SS-Totenkopfverbände

Usage notes edit

  • Created in 1939, the Waffen-SS absorbed the SS-Verfügungstruppe (armed militias) as well as the SS-Totenkopfverbände (concentration camp guards) in 1940, whereas the Allgemeine SS (general SS) soon lost most of its importance. The Waffen-SS subsequently included elite combat units deployed at the front as well as units active in the occupied territories. In practice, the term is often used especially of the combat arm.

Translations edit