Cheken

/ˈtʃɛkən/ noun

Definition

A historical Russian internal security police force or its member, known for political repression.

Etymology

From Russian Cheka (Чека), acronym for Chrezvychainaya Kommissiya (Emergency Commission), established in 1917. The name referenced the organization's temporary, exceptional nature during the Russian Revolution.

Kelly Says

The Cheka became infamous as one of history's first secret police forces, and its legacy influenced the structure of secret police agencies worldwide—from the KGB to modern intelligence services. The acronym spawned derivatives like 'Chekist' that reflected Cold War terminology.

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