The phrase “what does 86 someone mean” is a curious and frequently asked question by many who encounter this intriguing term in popular culture, restaurants, and everyday conversation. While it may sound like a mysterious code, “86 someone” has a distinct and fascinating background rooted in American slang. This article will explore what it means to “86 someone,” its origins, common usage, and how it evolved over time. Whether you’re a language enthusiast or just curious about this popular phrase, keep reading to uncover its meaning and significance.
What Does 86 Someone Mean? A Clear Definition
In simple terms, to “86 someone” means to eject, remove, or refuse service to someone. This phrase is often used in hospitality settings such as bars and restaurants to indicate that a customer is being barred from entering or being served. It can also apply more broadly to mean banning or getting rid of a person from a place or situation.
Common Situations Where “86 Someone” Is Used
- In bars or restaurants, when a patron is disruptive or causing trouble, staff may “86 someone” by refusing to serve them or asking them to leave.
- In workplaces or social groups, it can mean to exclude or fire a person.
- Among friends or online communities, it may suggest cutting someone off or removing them from the group.
Origins of the Phrase “86 Someone”
The exact origin of “86 someone” is debated among historians and linguists. Several theories attempt to explain where this catchy slang came from:
- Restaurant and Bar Lingo: Some believe “86” originated as a code used by bartenders and waitstaff to indicate an item is out of stock or to signal for a troublesome customer to be removed.
- Prohibition Era: During Prohibition in the United States, “86” might have referred to establishments needing to abruptly shut down or remove patrons quickly to avoid police raids.
- Numerical Code: Other explanations suggest “86” was simply a shorthand code for “get rid of” or “discard,” possibly from the rhyming slang for “nix” or connections to a restaurant address (e.g., 86 Bedford Street in New York).
Although the true origin remains uncertain, the consistent theme across stories is that “86” conveys a sense of removal or rejection.
Why Does “86 Someone” Matter in Modern Language?
Understanding what does 86 someone mean helps shed light on how slang evolves and influences communication, particularly in service industries and social interactions. Here’s why this phrase matters today:
- Clear Communication: In restaurants and bars, using “86” efficiently conveys to staff and customers that a person is unwelcome or that an item is unavailable.
- Social Boundaries: The phrase can serve to establish social boundaries by denoting exclusion or removal in group dynamics.
- Cultural Relevance: It appears frequently in movies, TV shows, and literature, adding authenticity and flavor to dialogue.
Modern Examples of “86 Someone” in Action
Here are some examples to demonstrate how the phrase is used in everyday speech:
- “The customer got too rowdy, so the bartender decided to 86 him from the bar.”
- “Due to policy violations, the company 86’d the employee last week.”
- “Looks like they 86’d that new menu item because it wasn’t selling well.”
Tips on Using “86 Someone” Correctly
If you’re interested in incorporating this phrase into your vocabulary, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use it mainly in informal contexts, especially when referring to removal or refusal.
- Understand your audience; the term might not be universally recognized outside American English or service industries.
- Be cautious with tone, as saying someone is “86’d” can sound harsh or dismissive.
Ultimately, having a grasp on what does 86 someone mean enriches your understanding of language’s colorful and dynamic nature. The phrase elegantly blends practicality and cultural history, making it a fascinating piece of slang that continues to thrive.
