Have you ever overheard someone say “86” in a conversation or seen it referenced in a movie or restaurant setting and wondered, “What is 86 mean?” This seemingly simple number holds a fascinating place in language, culture, and even hospitality industry jargon. Understanding what 86 mean can reveal interesting insights into how language evolves and how numbers can carry significant meanings beyond their numerical value.
What Is 86 Mean? Understanding the Origin and Usage
At its core, “86” is a slang term commonly used to indicate that something should be removed, rejected, or is no longer available. The phrase “to 86 something” means to get rid of it or to refuse service. It’s particularly prevalent in the restaurant industry where a server might say, “We’re 86 on the cheesecake,” meaning the cheesecake is sold out.
Historical Theories Behind “86”
The exact origin of the term “86” is somewhat unclear, but several popular theories exist:
- Prohibition-Era Bars: Some believe “86” was a code used in speakeasies during Prohibition to alert bartenders that police were coming, signaling to stop serving alcohol immediately.
- Restaurant Jargon: It might have originated as restaurant shorthand for an item out of stock or a customer who needs to be removed.
- Diner Codes: According to one theory, old diner menus numbered items, with “86” indicating an item was removed or discontinued.
- Rhyming Slang: Another idea suggests that “86” rhymes with “nix,” both meaning to cancel or refuse.
Uses of “86” in Modern Context
Today, “86” has expanded beyond the confines of restaurants and bars, appearing in everyday language and popular culture:
- In Restaurants and Bars: Servers and bartenders use “86” to communicate quickly about inventory or customer service issues.
- General Use: People might say they “86’d” an idea, meaning they discarded it.
- Pop Culture: Movies, TV shows, and music sometimes use “86” to imply being kicked out or things being taken off the table.
Why Understanding What Is 86 Mean Matters
Knowing what 86 mean provides more than just trivia knowledge. It illustrates how codes in specific industries can enter common parlance and enrich language. This term is also a great example of how communication evolves to become efficient and sometimes cryptic.
Examples in Sentences
- “The chef just told me we’re 86 on the salmon tonight.” (Meaning: The salmon is no longer available.)
- “The manager 86’d the unruly guest after the incident.” (Meaning: The guest was asked to leave.)
- “Let’s 86 that plan; it’s not going to work.” (Meaning: Let’s discard that plan.)
Other Related Terms
Alongside “86,” other hospitality slang contributes to efficient communication, such as:
- “Back of house” (BOH) – kitchen and staff area.
- “Front of house” (FOH) – customer-facing staff and area.
- “In the weeds” – overwhelmed with work.
These phrases, including “86,” emphasize how critical shorthand communication is in high-pressure environments like restaurants.
Final Thoughts on What Is 86 Mean
Discovering what 86 mean opens a door into a lively linguistic tradition filled with history, culture, and practical communication needs. This term, whether used in restaurants, bars, or everyday talk, captures a simple but powerful concept: the removal or unavailability of something. So next time you hear “86,” you’ll know it’s more than just a number—it’s a signal, a command, and a piece of living language.
