shock troops

plural noun

, Military.

1. troops especially selected, trained, and equipped for engaging in assault.

shock troops

plural noun

1. soldiers specially trained and equipped to carry out an assault

Word History and Origins

Origin of shock troops¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

Authorities pushed back by sending waves of shock troops behind riot shields into the streets.

From The Daily Beast

The backlash was instant and massive, a show of force of the Chavista cyber-shock troops.

From The Daily Beast

They were actually the political shock troops for Sharpe James.

From The Daily Beast

Two divisions of German shock troops had broken against a regiment of American fighting men.

From Project Gutenberg

It was in fact indecisive, because the leader's shock troops had been used up, and the situation was crumbling from within.

From Project Gutenberg

Why, they have already sent some of their great shock troops against us in this sector.

From Project Gutenberg

The forces that faced them, bent on forcing a passage to Paris were composed of the best Prussian guards and shock troops.

From Project Gutenberg

The Germans in many sections attacked in three waves of infantry, followed up by shock troops.

From Project Gutenberg