To 86 Someone Urban Dictionary: What Does It Really Mean?

Alright, let’s talk about what it means to 86 someone. If you’ve ever been ghosted, side-eyed, or straight-up kicked out of a plan, chances are this slang phrase has casually popped into the convo. But where did it come from? How do you use it? And, most importantly, how do people meme it online? Let’s dive in and get you fluent in this spicy little phrase 🔥.

Origin: Where Did “To 86 Someone” Come From?

The phrase “to 86 someone” sounds like code, right? Well, it kinda is! It originated back in mid-20th century American restaurant lingo. Bartenders and waitstaff used “86” as a shorthand for “we’re out of this item” or “kick this customer out.” Over time, the phrase morphed from a simple “no more” for food or drinks to meaning “ban, eject, or reject” someone.

Some urban dictionary entries trace it even further back to Prohibition-era speakeasies where “86” was allegedly bartender code for “get rid of” (like get rid of the cops or rude guests). Why 86? No one knows for sure, but theories range from references to address numbers or rhyming slang. Whatever the source, the meaning stuck big time.

How to Use “To 86 Someone” Correctly

Okay, you get the history — now how about some street-level usage? When you 86 someone, you’re basically saying you’re cutting them off, ejecting them, or blacklisting them from an event, place, or even a group chat. It can be serious, like a bouncer telling troublemakers to bounce, or more casual, like a friend jokingly telling another, “Dude, you’re 86’d from the pizza party after that last prank.”

Here are some ways this pops up in everyday talk:

• In the club: “Security just 86’d that guy for starting drama.”
• Among friends: “You’re 86’d from the next game night if you keep stealing the controller.” 😂
• Online banter: “Mod just 86’d the troll account. Peace out!”

Real-World Chat Example

DM from a friend:
Friend #1: “Yo, can Tim come to the BBQ tonight?”
Friend #2: “Nah, we 86’d him after last time he showed up super late and ate all the snacks.”

Etiquette & Do’s and Don’ts When Using “To 86 Someone”

This term can be funny and playful, but remember—it can also sound harsh if used the wrong way. Here’s a quick rundown of when and when not to use it:

• Do use it jokingly with friends who understand the humor.
• Do apply it in contexts where rejection or banishment is clear and not overly serious.
• Don’t use it to bully or genuinely hurt someone without explanation.
• Don’t confuse it with simple “ignoring” or “ghosting” — it’s more proactive.

Funny Ways “To 86 Someone” Pops Up Online

The internet LOVES slang that doubles as meme fuel, and “to 86 someone” is no exception. You’ll find it in hilarious Twitter clapbacks, savage Twitch chat mod warnings, or even petty group text drama.

Example 1: Twitter Roasts

“When Karen wants to return a salad because there’s too much dressing: ‘Sorry, Karen’s been 86’d from our establishment permanently.'” 🤣

Example 2: Twitch Chat

Streamer: “No spoilers in chat or you get 86’d!”
Chat user: “Guess I’m out of here then!”

Example 3: Group Text Drama

Friend 1: “He said what about my playlist??”
Friend 2: “Yup, officially 86’d from DJ duties next time.” 😂

See what we mean? The phrase is super versatile and perfect for situations where you want to humorously but emphatically say “you’re done” or “you’re out.”

Wrapping It Up

To recap, to 86 someone means to boot, kick out, or banish them from a spot, event, or group. It’s rooted in American service industry slang and has since exploded into everyday and online vernacular. Use it wisely and playfully, and you’ll sound like a slang pro who knows how to shut down chaos with style.

Next time you’re about to shut down someone’s antics, just say, “You’ve been 86’d.” Instant vibe.