Eighty-six definitions
| Word backwards | xis-ythgie |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The word "eighty-six" can be used as both a verb and an adjective. As a verb, "to eighty-six" means to get rid of or dispose of something, especially in a restaurant setting when an item is no longer available or needed. As an adjective, "eighty-six" can describe something that has been removed, discontinued, or eliminated. |
| Syllabic division | eight-y-six |
| Plural | The plural of the word "eighty-six" is "eighty-sixes." |
| Total letters | 9 |
| Vogais (2) | e,i |
| Consonants (6) | g,h,t,y,s,x |
When you hear the term "eighty-six" in the service industry, it typically means to discard an item or to refuse service to a customer. This slang phrase originated in the United States in the 1930s and is commonly used in restaurants and bars.
The Meaning of Eighty-Six
While the exact origins of the term "eighty-six" are debated, it is widely believed to have originated from Chumley's, a famous speakeasy in New York City. The number 86 was said to be used as code among their staff to alert each other when the police were on the way to raid the establishment.
Usage in the Service Industry
In modern times, the term "eighty-six" is used in the service industry to indicate that an item on the menu is no longer available or that a customer is being refused service. For example, if a customer is being unruly or causing trouble, a server may inform their colleagues to "eighty-six" that customer, meaning they are no longer welcome.
Alternative Meanings
While "eighty-six" is primarily used in the service industry, it has also found its way into mainstream language with various meanings. It can be used to indicate the end or rejection of something, similar to its usage in restaurants and bars.
Overall, the term "eighty-six" has a rich history and continues to be a popular phrase in the service industry and beyond.
Eighty-six Examples
- The restaurant had to eighty-six the seafood special due to the kitchen running out of fresh fish.
- The bartender had to eighty-six serving drinks to the unruly customer who had too much to drink.
- The store had to eighty-six a faulty product after receiving multiple complaints from customers.
- The chef decided to eighty-six the spicy sauce from the menu because it was too overpowering.
- The airline had to eighty-six a flight due to inclement weather conditions.
- The club had to eighty-six a disruptive guest who was causing a disturbance.
- The manager had to eighty-six an employee who was consistently late to work.
- The hotel had to eighty-six a reservation when the guest failed to show up on time.
- The bakery had to eighty-six the popular pastry as they ran out of key ingredients.
- The music festival had to eighty-six a band from performing due to a scheduling conflict.