The old slang term '86' probably started as restaurant-worker jargon. Suddenly it's in the news
Briefly

The political controversy involving former FBI Director James Comey centers around the slang term '86,' which originated in the food-service industry to indicate that something is no longer available. In a now-deleted Instagram post, Comey used the term in reference to a political message, implicating former President Trump. However, Trump and other Republicans interpreted it as a potential threat of violence, questioning Comey's intentions. The term's evolution highlights its various meanings, with some associations suggesting it could imply discarding or metaphorically 'killing' someone, although this is less common.
The slang term '86' began in the food-service industry as shorthand for something being unavailable, and has developed metaphorical meanings, including political connotations.
James Comey's Instagram post and his use of the term 'cool shell formation,' meant as a political message, triggered accusations of a violent threat toward Trump.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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