Noun (plural): a multiplicity of official (or official-looking) documents, permits, passes, and/or letters of authorization, typically bearing apparently authentic governmental stamps, seals, and signatures, to be presented mostly by scientific expeditions from developed nations whenever challenged by
local, often sub-literate, authorities attempting to impede their progress to extort monies or other remunerations in return for “safe passage” through a specific area under their control; the intent being to thwart such
local tactics by implication of the threat of condign
action from a
superior governmental power should the papers presented be ignored.
"Suddenly our progress was halted by a group of armed men, but after a few tense minutes they waved us along, after
Dr.
Keller flashed his packet of
dago dazzlers in their faces."