Pronunciation: [stˈɛŋkə] (IPA) 
The word "stenka" is spelled with six letters and is pronounced as /ˈstɛŋkə/. The IPA phonetic transcription explains that the "s" is pronounced as /s/, the "t" as /t/, the "e" as /ɛ/, the "n" as /ŋ/, the "k" as /k/ and the "a" as /ə/. This word's spelling can be confusing, as it is not a commonly used word in English. It means a small room in a ship's lower deck where sailors sleep.
Stenka is a noun that refers to a traditional Russian criminal organization or gang, primarily active in the pre-revolutionary period. The term is rooted in the Russian word "stena" meaning "wall" and refers to the organization's secretive and insular nature. Stenkas were known for their hierarchal structure, strict code of conduct, and engagement in various criminal activities, such as theft, extortion, smuggling, and racketeering.
The stenka served as a haven for outlaws and fugitives seeking protection and camaraderie, typically targeting the lower social classes in urban areas. The group operated clandestinely, with their activities often masked under the guise of legitimate business or social organizations. Stenkas adhered to a set of unwritten rules and traditions, emphasizing loyalty, mutual support, and secrecy, all enforced through a system of severe punishments.
Members of a stenka, commonly referred to as "stenkasovtsy," were recognized by specific tattoos, symbols, or dress codes that signaled their affiliation. These visual cues were used to demonstrate allegiance and assert dominance over rival gangs or authorities. Stenkas propagated a sense of belonging and identity among their members while instilling fear in the wider society.
While stenkas primarily operated in the past, their influence is still occasionally felt in modern criminal organizations, such as the Russian mafia. Much of the stenka's legacy is now preserved through folklore, literature, and media, highlighting their significance in Russian history and criminal culture.
The word "stenka" comes from the Russian language. It is derived from the Russian word "stenka" (стенка), which means "a wall" or "a partition". In its original form, it referred to a dividing wall or partition within a building. Over time, the word acquired additional meanings, such as a small room or a compartment. Nowadays, "stenka" is commonly used in Russian to describe a small enclosed space within a room, often referring to a specifically designated area where a person may sleep or work.
