86 (term)

A term used in American popular culture as a slang for getting rid of something or someone

86 is a term used in American popular culture as a slang for getting rid of something or someone. It is often used in the context of restaurants and bars to indicate that an item is out of stock or that a customer is to be refused service.

Etymology

The origin of the term "86" is unclear, with several theories proposed. One popular theory suggests that it originated from Chumley's, a famous speakeasy located at 86 Bedford Street in Greenwich Village, New York City. According to this theory, patrons were "86'd" out the back door when police raided the establishment.

Usage in Restaurants

In the context of restaurants, "86" is used by kitchen and wait staff to indicate that a menu item is no longer available. For example, if a restaurant runs out of steak, the kitchen might inform the wait staff to "86 the steak," meaning it should no longer be offered to customers.

Usage in Bars

In bars, "86" can also mean that a particular customer is no longer welcome. This could be due to inappropriate behavior, intoxication, or other reasons deemed sufficient by the establishment.

Cultural References

The term "86" has been referenced in various forms of media, including film, television, and music. It is often used to convey the idea of exclusion or removal.

Related pages

• Chumley's
• Greenwich Village
• Speakeasy
• Slang

Gallery

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  Chumley's at 86 Bedford Street, a possible origin of the term "86"

86 (term)

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