86 Meaning

The term "86" is a widely recognized slang expression with origins rooted in both the military and bartending worlds. It is commonly used to indicate that something should be removed, discarded, or is no longer available. Over time, "86" has transcended its initial contexts to become a part of everyday language, especially in hospitality, restaurant industries, and casual conversations. Understanding the meaning and usage of "86" can help in interpreting communications more clearly and efficiently, whether you're behind the bar, in the military, or simply engaging in informal dialogue.

86 Meaning

Origin and Definition

The term "86" originated in American bars and restaurants in the early 20th century. It is believed to have several possible roots:

• Military origins: Some historians suggest it was used in military slang to indicate that a soldier or item was to be "thrown out" or removed from a list or inventory.
• Bar and restaurant usage: In the hospitality industry, "86" was used to tell staff that a particular item was out of stock or that a customer should be refused service.
• Famous theories: One popular story is that "86" referred to a specific room number or code in a restaurant, which later became a shorthand for removing or rejecting items.

Common Usage in Different Contexts

Today, "86" is most frequently used in the following contexts:

• Bartending: To tell staff to remove an ingredient or stop serving a particular drink.
• Restaurants: To indicate that an item is no longer available or out of stock.
• Military: To denote the need to discard or eliminate personnel or equipment.
• Casual conversation: To suggest dismissing or rejecting something informally.

Examples of Usage

Here are some typical examples of how "86" is used in everyday language:

• "We're 86-ing the chicken wings tonight because we're out of sauce."
• "That idea is 86-ed; we won't be proceeding with it."
• "Can you 86 the old supplies from the inventory list?"
• "The customer was 86-ed from the bar for disruptive behavior."

Significance and Cultural Impact

The term "86" has become part of popular culture, often used humorously or casually in various industries. Its concise form makes it an efficient way to communicate the removal or rejection of items, ideas, or individuals. Recognizing its meaning can improve communication in professional settings and help avoid misunderstandings.

Conclusion

In summary, "86" is a versatile acronym with roots in military and hospitality slang, signifying the act of over, throwing out, or discarding. Whether used in a restaurant to indicate an item is out of stock or in casual conversation to dismiss an idea, understanding the context of "86" enhances effective communication. Its rich history and widespread usage continue to make it a valuable term in various industries and everyday language.