Definition

A type of prison camp used by Germany during wartime, specifically for holding soldiers who are captured, including both officers and enlisted personnel.

Example

During World War II, many soldiers were held in a stalag after being captured in battle.

Conversation

Have you ever read about a stalag?

Yeah, I think it was a type of prisoner camp during the war.

Right! It was mainly for officers and enlisted men.

That’s pretty interesting; I never knew much about those camps.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'stalag' originates from the German word 'Stalag', which is a shortening of 'Stalagmat', meaning a type of prisoner of war camp. The term is derived from the German 'Stamm' (meaning stem or trunk) and 'lag' (meaning to lie or rest). The word 'stalag' refers specifically to a camp where prisoners are held, particularly during wartime.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'camp' where prisoners 'lie' or 'rest' — that's what 'stalag' refers to.

Visually Confused Words