What Does 86 Mean in Cop Talk? Unpacking the Slang and Its Origins
The world of law enforcement, like many professions, has its own unique jargon and slang. These terms can be cryptic to outsiders, but they serve a practical purpose for officers communicating quickly and efficiently, especially in high-pressure situations. One such term that often sparks curiosity is "86." But what exactly does "86" mean in cop talk?
The Primary Meaning of "86" in Law Enforcement
In its most common usage within American law enforcement, "86" means to cancel or get rid of something or someone. It's a versatile term that can be applied in a variety of contexts.
Here are some specific ways "86" is used:
- Canceling an Alert or BOLO: If a vehicle or person is being sought (a "BOLO" - Be On the Look Out), and they are found, or the alert is no longer necessary for another reason, an officer might say, "86 the BOLO on the stolen blue sedan." This signifies that the broadcast should be terminated.
- Discontinuing a Surveillance: If a stakeout or surveillance operation is no longer fruitful or has been compromised, officers might be instructed to "86 the surveillance."
- Removing a Person from a Scene: In situations where an individual is being disruptive or needs to be removed from a specific location for their safety or the safety of others, "86" can be used. For example, "86 the drunk from the bar."
- Terminating an Investigation: If a case is deemed unsolvable, or if new information renders it moot, an investigation might be "86'd."
- Canceling an Order or Request: In a more general sense, it can mean to cancel a prior order or request.
The Origins of "86" - A Mystery Wrapped in an Enigma
The exact origin of the term "86" is not definitively known, and like many slang terms, its roots are debated. However, several theories are commonly circulated within and outside of law enforcement circles:
One popular theory suggests it comes from the liquor industry, specifically referring to the 86-proof alcohol content. This theory posits that if a customer became too rowdy, they would be served 86-proof liquor, which was seen as less potent than higher proofs, in an attempt to calm them down. If they continued to misbehave, they would then be removed, or "86'd."
Another prominent theory points to Delmonico's Restaurant in New York City, a famous establishment that closed in 1923. The story goes that the restaurant had 86 different items on its menu, and if an item was unavailable, the waiter would inform customers that it was "86." This theory, however, is less commonly cited in relation to law enforcement slang.
A third, and perhaps more fitting, theory for its police usage, suggests it relates to speakeasy addresses or exit numbers. For example, a known exit number from a police raid or a specific location associated with illicit activity could have been "86." If police were raiding a place and needed to signal an end to operations or to leave, they might use "86."
Finally, some believe it's simply a nonsensical code word that gained traction. In the world of slang, arbitrary word choices often become adopted due to their sound or the way they roll off the tongue.
Regardless of its precise origin, the meaning of "86" as "to get rid of" or "cancel" has firmly established itself in the lexicon of American law enforcement.
"86" in Broader Contexts
While "86" is most prominently associated with police talk, it has also found its way into other vernaculars, particularly in the restaurant and bar industry. In these settings, it almost always refers to an item on the menu being out of stock. If a server tells you, "We're 86'd on the salmon," it means they've run out of salmon.
This broader usage likely stems from the same ambiguity in origin, with the restaurant theory being a strong contender for its adoption in that sector. However, the urgent and decisive nature of "86" in police communication gives it a more impactful connotation.
Frequently Asked Questions about "86" in Cop Talk
How is "86" used in an active police situation?
In an active police situation, "86" would be used to quickly convey a need to stop or remove something. For instance, if a suspect is fleeing and police have broadcast a description, but then the suspect is apprehended, the dispatcher might announce, "86 the description of the suspect, suspect in custody." Or, if a patrol car is actively searching for a vehicle, and another unit locates it, they might radio, "We have eyes on the vehicle, 86 the lookout."
Why is slang like "86" used by law enforcement?
Law enforcement agencies use slang for several reasons. Firstly, it allows for rapid and concise communication, especially over radio channels where time is of the essence. Secondly, it can help maintain a sense of camaraderie and shared understanding among officers who are part of the same profession. Finally, in some cases, slang can be used to communicate discreetly, although this is less common with widely known terms like "86."
Are there other numbers with specific meanings in cop talk?
Yes, law enforcement uses various numbers as code. For example, "10-4" is a widely recognized code for "understood" or "okay." Other numbers have specific meanings related to different types of calls or situations, though many of these codes are becoming less common with the advent of plain language radio communications in some departments.
Can "86" refer to something negative being removed?
Absolutely. While "86" means to get rid of something, it can certainly imply the removal of something undesirable. If officers are dealing with a dangerous individual or a persistent problem, "86" them would clearly convey that the situation needs to be resolved by their removal.
