ulster defence association
Proper noun A major Protestant paramilitary and loyalist organization in Northern Ireland, historically involved in sectarian violence and criminal activities during the period of conflict known as "The Troubles."
This term is used as a proper noun to refer specifically to this organization. It is typically used in historical, political, and journalistic contexts when discussing the Northern Ireland conflict, paramilitarism, or organized crime.
Examples * Historical records show the Ulster Defence Association was formed in 1971. * The government declared the Ulster Defence Association an illegal organization. * Analysts studied the role of the Ulster Defence Association in the sectarian violence.
- Initialism: The organization is very frequently referred to by its initials, UDA.
- The UDA was accused of involvement in drug trafficking.
- UDA: The common initialism for the Ulster Defence Association.
- Ulster Defence Association (UDA): The full name often presented with its initialism in parentheses for clarity.
- Loyalist paramilitary: A broader category describing armed groups, like the UDA, that sought to maintain Northern Ireland's political union with Great Britain.
- Paramilitary group (a more general term)
- Loyalist organization (specifies its political alignment)
Note: Synonyms are approximate, as "Ulster Defence Association" is a unique proper noun referring to one specific entity.
- the major Protestant paramilitary group in Northern Ireland; responsible for bombing the homes of Catholics and for criminal racketeering and selling drugs