Eighty-six is slang because it's thought to be rhyming slang for "nix," used to mean "to throw out," "to get rid of," or "to refuse service to."
Understanding the Origins of 86
The term "86" didn't just pop up overnight. It has a specific origin:
- Soda Counter Roots: The term first surfaced in the 1930s in soda counters. It was a way to signify that a menu item was no longer available because it was sold out.
The Connection to "Nix"
The most widely accepted theory behind 86 being slang is that it's rhyming slang for the word "nix," which itself means to reject or cancel. Here's how the theory works:
- Rhyming: In rhyming slang, a word is replaced by a phrase that rhymes with it.
- Eighty-Six and Nix: While not a perfect rhyme, "eighty-six" is close enough to "nix" to be used as a replacement. This was likely used by people wanting a secret term that wasn't easily understood by outsiders.
How 86 Is Used Today
Today, "86" is commonly used in a variety of settings:
- Restaurants and Bars: To signify a dish is no longer available, or a person is no longer allowed in the establishment.
- General Usage: It is used more broadly now, to mean getting rid of something or rejecting someone.
- Example: "I am 86ing all social media apps"
- Example: "He was 86ed from the club"
| Origin | Meaning | Usage Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 1930's Soda Counter | Item is Sold out | "86 the hot fudge today" |
| Current Slang | To get rid of or refuse service to | "86 that guy" , "They 86ed the TV" |
Therefore, "86" is slang due to its likely roots in rhyming slang and its evolution from a term for sold-out items to a broader expression for rejection or removal.
