03 — GLOSSARY
What Does the Name 'Mossad' Mean?
'Mossad' is the Hebrew word for institute or institution. The name is short for Mossad Merkazi le-Modi'in ule-Tafkidim Meyuchadim — the Institute for Intelligence and Special Operations — Israel's foreign intelligence service.
Evidence Assessment
The name's meaning and the institution's formal designation.
Key Facts
- Word:
- Mossad (Hebrew, 'institute')
- Full name:
- Institute for Intelligence and Special Operations
- Established:
- Circa 1949
- Scope:
- Overseas intelligence
The word
In Hebrew, 'mossad' designates an institute or institution. Its use as the common name of the intelligence body developed over time and became standard, while the formal designation is the Institute for Intelligence and Special Operations.
Usage notes
Popular usage extends 'Mossad' to cover all Israeli intelligence, including internal security and military intelligence. The encyclopedia treats those as separate institutions and reserves 'Mossad' for the overseas body.