The phrase “why does 86 mean kill” has intrigued language lovers, historians, and pop culture fans alike. This seemingly cryptic code has crossed from diner slang into the realms of culinary, bartending, and even criminal jargon, where “86” often means to get rid of something or, more drastically, to “kill” it. But why does 86 mean kill, and how did this phrase embed itself so deeply into American vernacular? This article dives into the fascinating origins, historical uses, and cultural impact of “86.”
Why Does 86 Mean Kill? Exploring the Origins
Understanding the meaning behind the number 86 as “kill” or “remove” requires looking back to early 20th-century America, especially in the food and beverage industry. Here are some key insights into its possible roots:
- Diner and Bar Slang: One of the most accepted theories is that “86” was used by waitstaff to indicate items that were out of stock, essentially meaning “remove” from the menu or “no longer available.”
- Prohibition Era Code: During the Prohibition era, bartenders needed quick codes to discreetly refuse or eliminate certain customers or drinks; “86” was a convenient numeric shorthand.
- Military and Police Usage: Some sources suggest that “86” originated as a police code or military term indicating to “kill” or “eliminate” a target or situation.
Popular Theories About the Origin of 86
- Chumley’s Bar Theory: Supposedly, at Chumley’s Tavern in New York City, located at 86 Bedford Street, when a raid was about to happen, bartenders would shout “86!” signaling everyone to clear out or “kill” the situation.
- Ingredient Shortage Theory: Another explanation points to the era’s kitchens where on order slips, 86 meant an item was out of stock and had to be “killed” or removed from orders.
How Did 86 Transition to Meaning “Kill”?
The leap from “out of stock” or “remove” to “kill” may seem large, but when examining linguistic evolution, it becomes clearer. “Kill” in slang often implies to stop or end abruptly. Since 86 meant getting rid of something immediately in bars and diners, it naturally evolved into meaning something more severe—killing the item, person, or idea.
Moreover, pop culture, movies, and television further cemented this usage. Characters in crime dramas or gangster films often used “86” to indicate eliminating a threat or canceling a plan, reinforcing the word’s association with the act of killing.
Common Uses of 86 in Modern Language
- In restaurants: To take an item off the menu or stop serving it.
- In bars: To refuse service to a customer or to remove someone.
- In general slang: To get rid of or discard something or someone.
- In crime or detective stories: To kill or eliminate a target.
Why Does 86 Mean Kill? Cultural Significance and Impact
Beyond its literal meaning, “86” has become a cultural symbol of rejection and removal. It’s a concise, sharp way to indicate the ending of something without lengthy explanation. The phrase’s endurance is testament to how effective and memorable numeric slang can be.
Furthermore, “86” reflects how language adapts based on societal needs—from the noisy hustle of American diners to the coded signals necessary in less savory environments. Its transformation to mean “kill” highlights language’s power to convey serious meanings through simple words or numbers.
Summary: The Mystery Unveiled
- “86” likely started as kitchen or bar slang indicating removal or shortage.
- It evolved in criminal or military contexts to mean “kill” or eliminate.
- Popular media played a big role in popularizing “86” as a term for killing.
- Today, it is used broadly to mean getting rid of or terminating something abruptly.
Understanding “why does 86 mean kill” provides more than just a linguistic curiosity; it opens a window into how words and numbers alike develop meanings from cultural practices, social needs, and historical events. Whether you encounter “86” in a diner, a movie, or casual conversation, now you know there’s a rich story behind this powerful phrase.
