former name of Volgograd, a city on the Volga River in the Soviet Union. Stalingrad was the site of a crucial battle against the invading German army in World War II (Aug. 1942 to Feb. 1943). Although the city was practically destroyed, Russia's defense finally forced the Germans to retreat and then surrender. The battle was the turning point in Germany's military power in the war and is considered one of the great turning points in military history. —New Slant on Life Glossary Final approval 28.1.90