86 Phone Number: What Does It Mean?

86 Phone Number: What Does It Mean?

Have you ever heard someone say they need to "86" a phone number and wondered what it meant? The term "86" has a colorful history and a specific meaning when it comes to phone numbers and beyond. This article will dive into the meaning of "86" in the context of phone numbers, its origins, and other interesting uses of the term.

What Does "86" Mean for a Phone Number?

When someone says they are going to "86" a phone number, it typically means they are going to block or disconnect that number. This action prevents calls or messages from that number from reaching the intended recipient. There are various reasons why someone might want to 86 a phone number, such as:

• Avoiding unwanted calls: This could include spam calls, robocalls, or calls from someone the recipient doesn't want to communicate with.
• Preventing harassment: If a phone number is being used to harass or threaten someone, blocking it can provide a necessary measure of protection.
• Ending communication: In situations where someone wants to completely cut off contact with another person, 86-ing their number can be a way to do so.

The Colorful History of "86"

The term "86" has a fascinating history with origins that predate the digital age. Its roots can be traced back to the restaurant and bar industry, where it has a long-standing meaning of "out of stock" or "no longer available." While the exact origin is debated, several theories exist:

1. Delmonico's Restaurant: One popular theory suggests that the term originated at Delmonico's Restaurant in New York City in the late 19th century. The restaurant allegedly had a menu item numbered "86" that was frequently unavailable. When the item was out of stock, staff would say it was "86'd."
2. Prohibition Era: Another theory links "86" to the Prohibition era, when speakeasies would use the term to warn customers that the police were raiding the establishment. The phrase may have been a code to indicate that it was time to leave or hide the alcohol.
3. Rhyming Slang: A more straightforward explanation suggests that "86" is simply rhyming slang for "nix," which means to reject or cancel something. This theory is supported by the use of other rhyming slang terms in the same era.

How to 86 a Phone Number

86-ing a phone number is a relatively simple process, and there are several ways to do it, depending on the device and service you are using:

On a Smartphone:

• Android:
  1. Open the Phone app.
  2. Tap the three dots in the upper-right corner and select "Call History."
  3. Tap the number you want to block.
  4. Tap the three dots again and select "Block number."
• iPhone:
  1. Open the Phone app.
  2. Tap "Recents."
  3. Tap the information icon next to the number you want to block.
  4. Scroll down and tap "Block this Caller."

Through Your Carrier:

Most mobile carriers offer services to block unwanted calls and messages. You can typically access these services through your online account or by contacting customer support. Some carriers also provide apps that make it easier to manage blocked numbers.

Using Third-Party Apps:

Several third-party apps are designed to block spam calls and unwanted numbers. These apps often use crowdsourced data to identify and block known spam numbers automatically. Popular options include Truecaller, Nomorobo, and Hiya.

Other Uses of "86"

While "86" is commonly used in the context of phone numbers, it also has other applications:

• Restaurants and Bars: As mentioned earlier, "86" is still widely used in the food and beverage industry to indicate that an item is out of stock or unavailable. For example, a bartender might say, "We're 86'd on the special cocktail tonight."
• General Rejection: The term can also be used more broadly to mean to get rid of, reject, or discard something. For instance, someone might say, "I'm going to 86 that old chair and get a new one."

FAQ About 86-ing Phone Numbers

What Happens When You 86 a Phone Number?

When you 86 a phone number, calls and messages from that number will typically be blocked from reaching your device. The person calling or messaging may not receive any indication that their communication is being blocked. — Mega Millions Winning Numbers: How To Play & Win Big

Can Someone Tell if You 86'd Their Number?

It's difficult for someone to know for sure if you have 86'd their number. Their calls may go straight to voicemail, or their messages may not be delivered, but these can also be signs of other issues, such as a dead battery or poor service. — 2007 Toyota Camry For Sale: Find Deals Near You

Is 86-ing a Number Permanent?

Blocking a number is usually reversible. You can typically unblock a number through your phone's settings or your carrier's services if you decide you want to receive calls or messages from that number again.

What's the Difference Between Blocking and Reporting a Number?

Blocking a number prevents that number from contacting you. Reporting a number, on the other hand, involves notifying your carrier or a regulatory agency about spam or abusive calls. Reporting a number can help authorities investigate and take action against the source of the unwanted communication.

Are There Alternatives to 86-ing a Number?

Yes, there are alternatives to blocking a number. You can use call screening features to identify unknown callers, or you can set up custom ringtones for specific contacts so you know who is calling before you answer. Some people also use call-filtering services that screen calls on their behalf. — Graco Pack 'n Play: Your Guide To Mattresses

Conclusion

The term "86" has a rich history and a clear meaning when applied to phone numbers: it means to block or disconnect. Whether you're dealing with unwanted calls, harassment, or simply want to cut off communication, 86-ing a number is a useful tool. Understanding the origins and various uses of the term adds an extra layer of appreciation for this piece of slang. The next time you hear someone say they're going to 86 a number, you'll know exactly what they mean.