The phrase “what does 86 mean in police code” is often heard in crime dramas, law enforcement conversations, and pop culture references. But what exactly does ’86’ signify in police jargon? Understanding this is vital for anyone interested in law enforcement communication, emergency codes, or even restaurant slang where the term has also found a unique place. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, meanings, and contexts where ’86’ surfaces, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what does 86 mean in police code.
What Does 86 Mean in Police Code?
The number “86” in police code is generally used to indicate that something or someone should be rejected, removed, or is no longer available. In law enforcement, 86 means to cancel, discard, or eliminate a particular item, suspect, or situation. While 86 is not an official code in the FBI or standard police 10-codes, it remains popular in many departments as part of informal or localized communication.
Origins of the Term ’86’
The origin of the term “86” is somewhat debated, but many experts trace it back to the 1920s or 1930s American slang, particularly in the hospitality industry and speakeasies during Prohibition. It was used as a discreet way to indicate that an item was unavailable or a customer should be refused service.
Over time, the police and other agencies adopted this term informally to mean:
- Remove a suspect from a scene
- Cancel a call or dispatch
- Eliminate evidence or contraband
Different Uses of 86 in Police and Military Contexts
While “what does 86 mean in police code” primarily points to removal or cancellation, the usage slightly varies depending on context:
- Law Enforcement: Officers might use “86” to instruct to get rid of or cancel a situation, like “86 the suspect” means to apprehend or remove the subject.
- Military: In military slang, 86 may imply scrapping or canceling a plan or mission.
- Emergency Services: Ambulance or fire departments sometimes say “86” to signify canceling a call or that a particular resource is no longer needed.
Why Is ’86’ Popular in Police and Pop Culture?
The popularity of “86” stems from its brevity and its ability to convey complex instructions quickly. Law enforcement relies on codes and shorthand to communicate efficiently under pressure, and “86” fits perfectly as a compact signal to discard or reject.
In pop culture, the term has crossed over beyond police and emergency services. It frequently appears in TV shows, movies, and even restaurants, where it means to stop serving or to remove an item from the menu.
Examples From Media and Real Life
- In popular TV series like “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” officers often use the term in casual banter or official communication.
- Restaurant staff use “86” to indicate an ingredient or dish is out of stock or no longer available.
- Among bartenders during Prohibition, “86” was code for refusing service to rowdy customers or running out of a particular liquor.
Summary: What Does 86 Mean in Police Code?
To summarize, “what does 86 mean in police code” can best be described as a term for canceling, removing, or refusing. Its roots lie in early 20th-century American slang that law enforcement and others have informally adopted over time.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Primary Meaning: To remove, reject, or cancel
- Context-Based Variations: Removal of suspects, cancellation of calls, rejection of service
- Cultural Crossover: Common in hospitality and pop culture
Understanding the meaning behind “86” in police code not only helps demystify law enforcement lingo but also highlights the dynamic way language evolves across different industries and communities.
