flak

Where does the word "flak" come from? It comes from German Fliegerabwehrkanone, passing through German before entering English (1940s).

Flak’s story begins in German: Fliegerabwehrkanone meant “anti-aircraft cannon.” An acronym meaning "aircraft defense cannon". Within German, it grew into Flak by 1930s-1940s. Shortened to the acronym for anti-aircraft fire. It reached English by 1940s as flak. Adopted during World War II, later used figuratively. Today, flak means anti-aircraft fire, or harsh criticism directed at someone.

1. Stage 1 · German · 1930s Fliegerabwehrkanone "anti-aircraft cannon", an acronym meaning "aircraft defense cannon".
2. Stage 2 · German · 1930s-1940s Flak "anti-aircraft fire", shortened to the acronym for anti-aircraft fire.
3. Stage 3 · English · 1940s flak "anti-aircraft fire; harsh criticism", adopted during World War II, later used figuratively.