“86” is slang that usually means to remove, reject, or get rid of something. In restaurants, it can also mean an item is no longer available. In some situations, it can even mean to throw someone out or refuse service.
People use “86” in everyday speech, especially in food service, bars, and casual conversation. For example, a server might say a menu item is “86’d” if the kitchen ran out of it. In other cases, someone might say they “86’d” a plan, meaning they canceled it or decided not to do it.
Meaning & Usage
The meaning depends on context, but it usually points to something being removed, canceled, or unavailable. In restaurants and bars, it is very common shorthand for “we don’t have that” or “don’t serve that anymore.”
Examples
“The soup is 86.”
“We had to 86 the meeting.”
“That customer was 86’d from the bar.”
Is “86” always negative?
Not always. Sometimes it just means something is unavailable or canceled. But it can also sound strict or serious, depending on how it’s used.
Where is “86” most common?
You’ll hear it most often in restaurants, bars, kitchens, and informal conversation.
Can “86” mean cancel?
Yes. In casual English, people often use it to mean cancel, drop, or get rid of something.
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