General
snowdrop
What does snowdrop mean?
RAF Police, called this since WWII because of the distinctive white cover worn over the peaked cap. Same logic as the US Army's MPs being called the same thing in some theatres. Affectionate to neutral when said by other RAF personnel; mildly contemptuous when said by someone who's just been nicked at the gate.
"Walked back to camp three sheets to the wind and got pulled by the snowdrops at the main gate."
Origin
WWII RAF, from the white-topped service dress cap worn by RAF Police on duty.
Frequently asked questions
What does "snowdrop" mean?
It's slang for the RAF Police, named for their distinctive white-topped service caps.
How do you use "snowdrop" in a sentence?
"The snowdrops were checking IDs at the gate."
Where does "snowdrop" come from?
The nickname comes from the white-topped caps worn by RAF Police, resembling the white snowdrop flower.
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