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Definition of jackbooted

jackbooted

/ˈdʒækˌbuːtɪd/
jack · boot · ed

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jackbooted Lexical Profile

jackbooted Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by cruel, ruthless, or authoritarian exercise of power, especially by a totalitarian regime or militarized force.

Example

"The historian's lecture examined how the country transitioned from a fragile democracy to a jackbooted dictatorship in the 1930s."


2

Wearing heavy military boots that reach above the knee.

Example

"The theatrical costume designer outfitted the palace guards as jackbooted sentries in dark wool coats."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from 'jackboot' (late 17th century), originally denoting a heavy leather cavalry boot reinforced to protect the rider's legs, with the figurative sense of ruthless authoritarianism emerging in the 20th century from its association with fascist military uniforms.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Jackbooted. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/jackbooted
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