Buzz
Exploring why law enforcement is commonly referred to as '12'
If you’ve ever heard the term '12' thrown around in social media or daily conversations, you might be curious about when this term started and why it’s so widely used. The origins of the slang remain a topic of discussion, but in this article, we’ll explore several theories behind why cops are called '12.' We’ll also delve into how this term gained traction and why '5-0' is another commonly used nickname for the police.
The Meaning of '12' as Police Slang: A Brief Overview
The precise origin of referring to cops as '12' is uncertain, but many suggest it comes from police radio codes. The code '10-12' signals officers to remain discreet when civilians might be present, which over time was simply shortened to '12.' Another possibility is that it relates to the classic TV series Adam-12, which also popularized the term '12.'
Process
Why is the Police Called '12'?
The Police Radio Code Theory In certain areas, '10-12' is a police code used to indicate 'visitors present,' which signals officers to be discreet since civilians may be nearby. Police departments use ten-codes for clear communication over the radio, and the '12' may have emerged as a shortened version to alert others of law enforcement's presence.
The Adam-12 TV Show Theory Another well-known theory ties the term '12' to the popular TV series Adam-12, which aired from 1968 to 1974. The show, which followed two LAPD officers in their patrol unit '1-Adam-12,' featured frequent references to their unit number, helping to popularize '12' as a slang term for police officers.
The 'All Cops Are Bastards (ACAB)' Theory Some suggest the term '12' comes from the acronym 'ACAB,' which stands for 'All Cops Are Bastards.' The number '1312' is used to represent the letters in the acronym (1=A, 3=C, 2=B), and over time, '1312' was likely shortened to '12' as a slang term for police.
- The ACAB slogan is often associated with those who oppose law enforcement, believing that police abuse their authority and contribute to systemic racism.
The 12th Precinct of the NYPD Theory A less widespread theory is that '12' stems from the 12th precinct of the New York City Police Department, known for its heavy-handed policing tactics. This precinct may have been adopted by local communities as a shorthand term for the police over time.
When Did '12' Become a Term for the Police?
The Rise of '12' as a Police Slang in the 1960s and 1970s The term '12' started to be used in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a quick way for people to notify their communities that police were in the area. It is believed to have originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE), eventually spreading into mainstream culture.
The Spread of '12' in Hip-Hop Culture
'12' as a Term for Narcotics Officers in Southern Rap In many southern cities, especially Atlanta, '12' became a popular slang term for cops, particularly narcotics officers. It gained further traction in hip-hop and rap music. Tracks like Migos' 'F*** 12,' with lyrics like 'Aye throw that s***, throw that s*** outside,' helped cement its place in urban vernacular. In this context, '12' is often used to refer to avoiding DEA detection, such as throwing away drugs when law enforcement is nearby.
What Does '5-0' Mean in Relation to Cops?
The Term '5-0' for Police Originated from the TV Show Hawaii Five-O The term '5-0' comes from the iconic TV series Hawaii Five-O, which originally aired from 1968 to 1980 and had a reboot from 2010 to 2020. The show revolved around a special state police unit in Hawaii called the 'Five-O Task Force,' and the title became synonymous with law enforcement in American pop culture.
Commonly Asked Questions
Is '12' an Insult to the Police? No, '12' is simply a slang term used to refer to the police, and it's not inherently derogatory. However, depending on the context and tone, it can come off as disrespectful.
- Some people believe that using slang terms for the police can foster an 'us vs. them' mentality, which can undermine the respect due to law enforcement.
What Other Slang Do People Use for the Police? Aside from '12,' common slang terms for police include 'cops,' 'the fuzz,' 'pigs,' '5-0 (or Five-O),' 'the Po-Po,' and 'the boys in blue.' In the UK, terms like 'bobbies,' 'plodder,' 'rozz,' 'nicker,' and 'blue bottle' are also used to refer to police officers.
Do Police Officers Refer to Themselves as '12'? No, '12' is generally used by civilians, especially in urban settings, to refer to law enforcement. Officers themselves typically use terms like 'unit,' 'patrol,' or 'officer' to describe their roles or colleagues.
