red label for political accusations; railway porter
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesnoun
red cap; label of being a communist
archaicRefers specifically to the historical practice during the White Terror era (1920s-1940s) when reactionary factions falsely accused progressive individuals of being Communists or having Communist ties. The literal 'red cap' is a metaphor for this political label.
In that era, many intellectuals were labeled with the red cap.
Because he expressed progressive views, the reactionaries pinned the red cap on him.
noun
railway porter; redcap
Refers to railway station workers who load/unload goods and carry luggage. They traditionally wore red caps for easy identification. This is a more common, modern meaning.
I have too much luggage; I need to find a porter to help.
There are many porters waiting for work at the train station exit.
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Porter services are charged per piece.