Also called jackboot tactics. brutally bullying, militaristic, or authoritarian measures. a person who uses such measures.
Where does the term jackboot come from?
The answer is a two-parter: the jackboot as footwear, and the jackboot as metaphor. The term jackboot dates back to the 17th century, when it denoted a boot of tall (knee length or even over the knee) undecorated design, made of extremely thick, tough leather to protect the legs of a soldier on horseback.
What are jackboot tactics?
n. 1. Harsh strongarm tactics; repressive, bullying and militaristic tactics like those used in authoritarian or totalitarian countries; - used opprobriously, and often in hyperbolic exaggeration of police tactics in democratic countries.
What does jack booted thugs mean?
wearing jackboots (= long leather boots as worn by soldiers or police who are thought of as violent or cruel): a jackbooted thug.5 days ago
Who wore jack boots?
They have been worn by the military from several countries for at least four hundred years. They are most commonly associated with the German army from World War II and the cold-war Soviet army. The word jackboot is also used as a symbol of military oppression, fascist attitudes, or bullying tactics.
When did Germans stop wearing jackboots?
While the German Army stopped issuing the tall jack boots in 1941, any left in stocks and supply rooms could be issued out until depletion. That is why some German soldiers are wearing jack boots in photographs dating to 1944. But typically you see German soldiers wearing ankle boots and ankle gaiters.
Are German jackboots comfortable?
If they fit correctly, Marschstiefeln (marching boots) are quite comfortable. If they are too loose, your feet will slide around in them, causing blisters, and they slide off of your heel a little bit every time you pick your feet up- only to be “put on” again every time your heel returns to the ground.
What does the word jackboots mean?
Definition of jackboot 1a : a heavy military boot made of glossy black leather extending above the knee and worn especially during the 17th and 18th centuries. b : a laceless military boot reaching to the calf. 2 : the spirit or policy of militarism or totalitarianism.
Why is it called a jackboot?
The term originates from the French word jaque meaning "coat of mail". These boots were made very heavy by the mail reinforcement and are slightly less so today from the use of modern materials as stiffeners.