KKK
Proper noun A white supremacist hate group and terrorist organization founded in the United States in the late 19th century. Historically and primarily, its activities have been characterized by violence, intimidation, and domestic terrorism aimed at suppressing and terrorizing Black people and other minority groups.
This term is used as the official name of the organization. It is typically preceded by the definite article "the." * The KKK held a rally in the town square. * Historians study the rise of the KKK during Reconstruction. * Legislation was passed to counter the activities of the KKK.
- The term is often used metonymically to represent organized racism, violent bigotry, or domestic terrorism with a historical connection to the American South.
- His rhetoric was condemned as echoing the views of the KKK.
- In academic or historical contexts, the full name "Ku Klux Klan" is frequently used alongside the initialism.
- Ku Klux Klan: The full name of the organization.
- Klansman (noun): A (male) member of the KKK.
- Klan (noun): A common shortened form used synonymously with "KKK," often in the phrase "the Klan."
- White supremacist group
- Hate group
- Terrorist organization (in historical and legal contexts)
This term refers specifically to the named organization. It is not used as a general synonym for "racism" or "prejudice," but rather denotes the specific group with its particular history, symbols, and methods. Its use carries significant historical and emotional weight.
- a secret society of white Southerners in the United States; was formed in the 19th century to resist the emancipation of slaves; used terrorist tactics to suppress Black people