Schutzstaffel
/ˈʃʊt͡sˌʃtafəl/feminine
The English phrase "the internal security force of Nazi Germany" is known in German as Schutzstaffel. If unsure, use Schutzstaffel. Wiktionary also lists SS.
Meaning: the internal security force of Nazi Germany (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Schutzstaffel | /ˈʃʊt͡sˌʃtafəl/ | feminine |
| SS | [ˌɛs.ˈʔɛs] (narrow) | feminine |
Schutzstaffel is a feminine noun used to refer to the paramilitary organization that served as the internal security force of Nazi Germany.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of Schutz, meaning protection and Staffel, meaning squadron or detachment.
Which one should you use?
Schutzstaffel is the full name of the organization, while SS is the common abbreviation used as shorthand.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word is a feminine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʃʊtsˌʃtafəl/
Did you know?
- In modern German, the word Staffel is frequently used in the context of television to describe a 'season' of a series, moving far away from its original military connotations.
- In modern Germany, using the SS symbol or displaying the runes associated with the Schutzstaffel is a criminal offense punishable by fines or imprisonment.
- While the word Schutz means 'protection', the historical use of the term is considered deeply ironic because the organization was primarily responsible for terror and systemic violence.
Examples in context
- Die Schutzstaffel war eine mächtige Organisation.The Schutzstaffel was a powerful organization.
- Er las über die Geschichte der Schutzstaffel.He read about the history of the Schutzstaffel.
- Die Schutzstaffel kontrollierte viele Bereiche.The Schutzstaffel controlled many areas.
Example conversation
Maximilian and Hannah are discussing a history book.
- MaximilianLiest du gerade über die Schutzstaffel?Are you reading about the Schutzstaffel right now?
- HannahJa, das Kapitel ist sehr erschreckend.Yes, the chapter is very shocking.
- MaximilianDie Schutzstaffel war wirklich grausam.The Schutzstaffel was truly cruel.
- HannahDas stimmt, es ist wichtig, darüber zu lernen.That's true, it is important to learn about it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “schutzstaffel” translations and entries Schutzstaffel, SS, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
