THE LINGUISTIC STORY OF “86’D”: HOW A NEW YORK BAR TERM BECAME PART OF AMERICAN ENGLISH
Keywords:
“86’d”, American slang, New York City linguistics, bar terminology, restaurant slang, Chumley’s speakeasy, soda fountain code, slang origins, Prohibition-era language, urban language evolution, philology.Abstract
The article explores the linguistic history and cultural significance of the American slang term “86’d.” Originating in New York City, the expression is commonly used in restaurants and bars to indicate that an item is unavailable or that a customer has been removed from the premises. The author examines several theories about the term’s origin, including the popular but debated connection to Chumley’s speakeasy at 86 Bedford Street during Prohibition, as well as a more historically supported explanation from 1930s soda fountain code language. Through these theories, the article illustrates how slang develops from everyday social interactions and reflects the cultural dynamics of specific environments—such as nightlife, restaurants, and urban communities. The spread of “86’d” from local New York slang to nationwide usage highlights the influence of cultural spaces and media on linguistic change. The article concludes that studying terms like “86’d” helps philology students understand how language evolves through social history, urban culture, and storytelling.
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