[Ads-l] DEFCON figurative

[MULLINS, WILLIAM D (Bill) CIV USARMY RDECOM AMRDEC (US)]

OED  has 1987
" 2. fig. With following number: a notional scale (from one to five; see note at sense 1) indicating the level of intensity, anticipation, readiness, vigilance, etc., in a particular context or situation. Esp. in Defcon 1: the highest possible level of intensity, anticipation, etc."


Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 29 Aug 1984 p 14 col 2
"The Panthers spent yesterday converting to DEFCON 2.  Defense condition 2 calls for a shower of compliments aimed and the enemy to neutralize his adrenaline."

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